Why is it that no-one can bore my merc block?

[Bobbywolf]

I purchased a trailer/boat/outboard for a good price due to the motor needing the top end rebuilt. I have done similar automotive jobs, and ATV' and motorcycles, and had no trouble getting the cylinders bored oversized, and then rebuilding with oversized pistons ect.

However, since my merc is a blind bore cylinder engine no machine shops will touch it with a 10 foot pole. Why is doing this so different? I am left with trying to find another powerhead (that also cannot be rebuilt in the future), or ditching mercs altogether for another outboard.

Parts are readily accessible, but no one will bore my cylinders! Lots of work went into this so far and I am frustrated to say the least.

 

[fhhuber]

Can't guarantee they'll get the metal shavings out and if the metal shavings remain they can score the bearings and cylinders trashing the engine in seconds.

 

[GA_Boater]

Shavings are a problem with any bore job, blind hole or not. Blind boring requires special mandrels and newer shops never had a need to purchase the tooling because very few newer motors are made with blind bores.

Your best bet is to look around for an older shop and most likely online. I've seen blind boring prices for $75 a hole.

 

[Bobbywolf]

I'd gladly pay that price, or more even. To be told its expensive is one thing. To be told it can't be done is another.

 

[GA_Boater]

It can be done, may be just no local to you.

https://lmgtfy.com/?q=blind+bore+outboard+service

 

[gm280]

I am certain there are machine shops out there that would gladly do it. You just have to find them. And if that means shipping it to them, well figure that cost in as well. But there are machine shops that will do it for certain.

I have to admit, I did forego an old 1974 CB450 motorcycle refurbish though for the exact same reason. No local machine shop would bore the cylinders for me. If I had known then what I know now, I would have rebuild that CB450. JMHO

 

[Bobbywolf]

Ok, I found 1 place that can do it. 3 provinces away. $70 per bore, plus shipping prices there and back. Provided I don't get killed with shipping, this may still work out. Anyone in eastern canada like me, the place is CV Tec, just outside of Quebec city,

 

[Yegboats]

Thats a good price compared to what i've gotten it done for. I'm in Ab it's about 120 per hole here.

 

[gm280]

Ok, I found 1 place that can do it. 3 provinces away. $70 per bore, plus shipping prices there and back. Provided I don't get killed with shipping, this may still work out. Anyone in eastern canada like me, the place is CV Tec, just outside of Quebec city,

Not familiar with how things are in Canada, if you could ship via freight truck, It would probably be the cheapest. Crate it up on a pallet and truck it. JMHO

 

[flyingscott]

What block do you have?

 

[Bobbywolf]

87 Mercury 3 cyl, 70hp.

I'm actually going to make up a wooden crate for this I think. I do not need this thing getting beat around.

Rob

 

[TNRoostertail]

Good for you Rob! I know a place down here in TN but shipping would be ridiculous. Thats why I didnt say anything earlier. I had a small box shipped to a buddy up in Toronto the other day and just regular shipping cost me 30 bucks. I cant imagine what 200lbs would cost.