Which engines came with the 270 outdrive?

FastForward

Recruit
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Aug 20, 2005
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4
I just picked up my first project boat the other day. A 76 Thompson 18' open bow. Well, I wasn't as throrough as I should have been when inspecting the engine. It was hot, I was tired, I took the guys word on a few things, in short, I'm an idiot. <br /><br />Anyway, upon closer inspection I'm inclined to believe the engine is toast. Time for a replacement. I'm guessing it's either a 351 Windsor or a 302 but could it be anthing else? How can I check? Also, the only difference between this engine and an auto engine is the alternator, exhaust manifolds, and distributor right? <br /> <br />Help me fix my mistake here :p Thanks in advance guys.
 

Dunaruna

Admiral
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May 2, 2003
Messages
6,027
Re: Which engines came with the 270 outdrive?

Post a pic. Most likely a 302w, very popular partner to the 270. Visually, you can't tell the difference between a 302 and a 351. Gotta get inside and measure.
 

rbezdon

Senior Chief Petty Officer
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Jun 20, 2004
Messages
689
Re: Which engines came with the 270 outdrive?

And the answer is no. I was told piston rings are different, freeze plugs starter, entire fuel system (pump, extra fuel lines, carb, filter also has water seperator, antisiphon system, spark arrester vs airfilter, cam cut plus the items you mention. I think the only items that are optional or disputable are the piston rings, every thing alse is mandatory and some safety are required by law and will result in voiding insurance claims if not per "code".
 

Scaaty

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May 31, 2004
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5,180
Re: Which engines came with the 270 outdrive?

Originally posted by FastForward:<br /> Also, the only difference between this engine and an auto engine is the alternator, exhaust manifolds, and distributor right? <br />
And a host of other things. Get a marine block....
 

buckff211

Cadet
Joined
Aug 15, 2005
Messages
7
Re: Which engines came with the 270 outdrive?

My 86 Bayliner has a Chevy 350 with a 270 Volvo outdrive. At least I think it's a chevy, distributor in the back.
 

Phantom17

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Feb 7, 2005
Messages
343
Re: Which engines came with the 270 outdrive?

Don't try to put that motor in the boat, it'll never go. Water passages, plug materials, cam, and a host of other internal, and all external parts are different. Marine engines are made to run at high rpm for long periods of time. Much like race car engines are different, boat motors are in a different area code too.
 

Don S

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
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Aug 31, 2004
Messages
62,321
Re: Which engines came with the 270 outdrive?

What engine was in the boat before? If it was a 4 cylinder Volvo, then you will have the wrong gear ratio in the drive, along with the wrong exhaust pipe or Y on the transom shield. What about the bellhousing? Do you have one to connect a Ford to the transom shield?
 

4.3sunbird

Seaman
Joined
Sep 8, 2005
Messages
73
Re: Which engines came with the 270 outdrive?

Originally posted by FastForward:<br /> the only difference between this engine and an auto engine is the alternator, exhaust manifolds, and distributor right? <br /> <br />Help me fix my mistake here :p Thanks in advance guys.
dont forget brass freeze plugs , marine water pump and marine gaskets <br /><br />btw a 351 has a taller deck surface which makes the heads farther apart than a 302 so the intake manifold is wider on a 351 <br /><br />Im no ford guy so youd have to check with some ford guy for measurments
 

Haut Medoc

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Jun 29, 2004
Messages
10,645
Re: Which engines came with the 270 outdrive?

Post the serial #, and you will get the correct answer......If it is a Ford block then you can transfer everything as long as you have the right block whether you have a 302 or 351. You have to stick to the original c.i.d., or you will be spending $ because alot of parts are not interchangeable. Rapido marine has blocks for right around a grand. Look on e-bay......How do you know it's shot?.....JK
 
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