Repower


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BetsyH

New member
Has anyone tried to repower a 1981 26 SC? The new Vortec 5.0 Merc IO's don't fit. They are too high.
 
What engine came in the boat originally? I am very surprised a small block chevy does not fit. It is pretty much the standard for that size boat.
 
The boat originally had a pair of 228's in it. I am going to try build a couple of small blocks. Someone mentioned building a new engine from a long block??
 
BetsyH said:
The boat originally had a pair of 228's in it. I am going to try build a couple of small blocks. Someone mentioned building a new engine from a long block??
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Are they 228 ford motors?
 
I have to admit I am a gear head from way back but I have never heard of 228's. I wonder since you mention they were twins and thats not alot of boat to have twin V-8's could they have been one of those odd ball mercruiser half a V-8 engines. I know there was a half a 460 engine Merc used in the seveties and eighties. That may explain the lack of upright space.
 
298 and 302 were both Ford engine displacements. I have never heard of a 289 mercruiser stock but there is no reason why it couldn't have. It is the same basic block as the 302. and they diod use 302's for a bit. Although it was much more common to see ford engines used with early volvo penta or OMC drives. Regardless either engine is a traditional V-8 and I would be very surprised if a small block chevy would not fit in their place. You may have to play around with low rise manifolds and air cleaners but it should be do-able.
 
I think the 228 hp engines was the Merc 898 package, which consisted of a 305 Chebby, and Type MR (early alpha) drive. That's what my 20 SC came with.
 
I am fairly new here, but thought I would throw in on this one. My '84 F-18 came with the 898 (305 2 barrel) when I repowered I went with the 228 which is the same thing engine with a 4 barrel.

Hope this helps

Tom
 
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