What's the issues with the 488

[Tacklewasher]

A friend has a boat for sale with a 488 in it.

What are the issues that make this an undesirable drive and can they be fixed?

He has already had the charging system converted to a standard type and has been told the cooling is the next issue that may be a problem.

As well, it seems the carb can be an issue as he had real problems with it his first year and his mechanic had a terrible time getting it replaced or rebuilt (I don't remember which).

He just want to understand what he may run into in selling it.

 

[Don S]

Re: What's the issues with the 488

The cooling issues are having a 3" heat exchanger. If it has a 3" heat exchanger, they tend to cause overheats. They were changed to 4".
Overheats are another problem due to the open deck design of the block. It tends to blow head gaskets when overheated.
Another problem was the engines circulation pump design. The seal rides on the camshaft and if it leaks, allows antifreeze directly into the oil. The seals also leave grooves in the camshaft. Might be able to use a speedy-sleeve for a repair, or you replace the cam.
The 4 bbl carb is a Rochester Quadrjet. Just a bit much for that engine in my opinion.