Replace Engine...

drexton311

Seaman
Joined
Jul 19, 2016
Messages
51
So I am thinking about replacing what appears to be a worn out 305 V-8 in my 1988 OMC/Reinell 185 F. I love the boat and it sure is in good shape, the motor just appears to be a little under powered, possibly due to the 110-105 PSI pressure check on the cylinders. But before I make a firm decision, I am going to double check timing, compete another pressure check, and confirm that everything else is right, so far I?m confident they are.
So I have been searching the internet for a good place to buy a 350 motor from. Does anyone have any good experience with a shop that can build a healthy 350 and be able to ship to Oklahoma? Another question, if I decided to go the Vortech motor route, besides the fuel pump and intake manifold, what other differences are there between my 1988, mechanical pump, 305 V-8? Am I correct in my understanding that the current exhaust manifolds will bolt to the Vortech heads?
As usual, thanks for the input!
 

drexton311

Seaman
Joined
Jul 19, 2016
Messages
51
Also, how do I determine if I have a standard or reverse rotation engine? I understand that I am supposed to look at the fly-wheel, but if I cannot access the fly-wheel, is there another method? Perhaps the rotation of the crank/harmonic balancer?
 

Scott Danforth

Grumpy Vintage Moderator still playing with boats
Staff member
Joined
Jul 23, 2011
Messages
50,306
Your motor is a standard rotation. Your after 19
85, so you have a 1- piece rear main.

Plenty of places to buy a short block from. I personally would build one myself
 

THE BEEF

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Jun 11, 2005
Messages
432
When you do the next compression check squirt oil in the cyl. before the check. If the readings don't change you might just need a valve regrind,
 
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