Total Engine Replacement?

[KnotConnected]

Hello! Within the first two (and a half) years of owning my first boat (purchased early Fall of 2012), I've had the absolute pleasure of finding I needed to:

*Re-calibrate shift cables
*Replac my shift cables
*Replace my shift cable bracket / harness
*Replace my Bravo3 lower unit due to corrosion
*Find and fix the aforementioned corrosion
*Rebuild the entire out-drive because the upper was missing parts and wasn't worked on properly by the prior owner and the lower I replaced was also build by an idiot

Now, some $14,000 later, I'm running with what I believe to be a dependable and properly running Bravo-3, but it has me wondering what *else* can break, and seeing as some of these over-night $9000 repairs weren't exactly something I was saving up for, how to plan for serious engine problems that are sure to come down the line.

I know that things like ballpark-costs are totally subjective, but:

Generally speaking,
*what would a *total overhaul* for a single 1994 Merc 454 cost?
*How many hours would it take to replace with an identical rebuilt "Crate engine"
*Is it possible to replace this points-ignition carb'd 454 with a newer fuel injected engine? I've seen 454's in Datsuns and LS2s in Miatas, so I know it's "possible" but is it something that the average merc certified mechanic could do, or it that upgrade in the realm of "a whole lotta fabrication work"


Thanks everyone!

 

[alldodge]

Hello! Within the first two (and a half) years of owning my first boat (purchased early Fall of 2012), I've had the absolute pleasure of finding I needed to:

*Re-calibrate shift cables
*Replac my shift cables
*Replace my shift cable bracket / harness
*Replace my Bravo3 lower unit due to corrosion
*Find and fix the aforementioned corrosion
*Rebuild the entire out-drive because the upper was missing parts and wasn't worked on properly by the prior owner and the lower I replaced was also build by an idiot

Now, some $14,000 later, I'm running with what I believe to be a dependable and properly running Bravo-3, but it has me wondering what *else* can break, and seeing as some of these over-night $9000 repairs weren't exactly something I was saving up for, how to plan for serious engine problems that are sure to come down the line.

I know that things like ballpark-costs are totally subjective, but:

Generally speaking,
*what would a *total overhaul* for a single 1994 Merc 454 cost?
*How many hours would it take to replace with an identical rebuilt "Crate engine"
*Is it possible to replace this points-ignition carb'd 454 with a newer fuel injected engine? I've seen 454's in Datsuns and LS2s in Miatas, so I know it's "possible" but is it something that the average merc certified mechanic could do, or it that upgrade in the realm of "a whole lotta fabrication work"


Thanks everyone!

A 454 crate motor will cost around 4K. If you rebuild it yourself I would estimate half that. If you have it done maybe 3 to 4K.

You can fuel inject the 454 by picking up a used Mercruiser EFI system off ebay or Offshore Only classifieds. Can buy a new FAST or Holley EFI systems (around 2 to 3K). Make sure it's a marine system and not an automotive system.

 

[tpenfield]

You really spent that much money on fixing your boat?

Try the Doug Russell web site for replacement engines and related costs. 454 engines are becoming extinct in favor of the smaller block engines.

Your 1994 engine would have electronic ignition, even though it is carb'd.

Although you have had a fair amount of work done, it is a boat and there is more stuff that can go wrong, if it so chooses.

 

[Volphin]

I don't know the book rate on your 454 R&R, but it can be done in a weekend by the novice. I'm guessing 8 hrs for book time.

 

[Scott Danforth]

did you do the work yourself or take it in to a marina? based on your experience, and the way-high costs you have incured, I can guess which Marina in Green Bay you took your boat to.

pull the motor yourself, and take it to Larry Sannes at Baril Engine on Centennial. tell him I sent you. I used to work with Larry's brother Lee. Baril is one of the best machine shops in the midwest and builds motors for most of the racers and boaters within the state. They also sponsor Matt Kenseth (and have since he was in High School). A complete rebuild for an SBC used to be about $1500 with all new rotating parts. the BBC was about $400 more, however that was about 4 years ago.

Also, if you need aluminum welding, stop in at valley radiator next door as well. Tell Mike I said hi.

Pull your alternator and starter and take them to Green Bay rebuilding. they will rebuild your starter and alternator for a really reasonable price.