Parting out vs. buying a new block

[wojciecj]

I have a 1986 2.5L Mercruiser I/O with a cracked block:facepalm:. What is the cheapest way to get it running again? Should I part out all of the good parts and then buy another engine? or should I get a broken engine off of craigslist with a good block and transfer the block into my engine? I am new with boats and don't know much about this kind of thing. Thanks in advance.

 

[tazrig]

Re: Parting out vs. buying a new block

I have a 1986 2.5L Mercruiser I/O with a cracked block:facepalm:. What is the cheapest way to get it running again? Should I part out all of the good parts and then buy another engine? or should I get a broken engine off of craigslist with a good block and transfer the block into my engine? I am new with boats and don't know much about this kind of thing. Thanks in advance. View attachment 190946View attachment 190947View attachment 190948

Just an opinion here but if your good with a wrench I'd just get a donor block and swap everything over. The reason I suggest this is better the devil you know than the one you don't. If everything else works and you know the motor all you'll have is a new block to contend with. If you buy another motor you have to go through the hassle of parting out the old motor and you'll never get what the parts are worth. Then you're starting off with a bunch of unknowns such as how good is the alternator, starter, fuel pump, carb or injection system etc. Also if you buy a new to you donor block make sure to pressure test it before you buy it to make sure your not just buying another bad block. Also can you try reposting your pictures you can't open them for some reason.

 

[achris]

Re: Parting out vs. buying a new block

If it were me, I'd look for a 3 litre engine and do the block swap on that...

Chris......

 

[bobkyle2]

Re: Parting out vs. buying a new block

I can't tell by the pictures, (Too small) ... But how bad is the crack, Can you get to the welds? If you know someone that can weld it up, Ive seen people save alot of money buy welding the block. My buddy runs a welded block in his race truck.With no issues 500hp.

Just a thought :/