1979 Chaparral 167 w/ a mercruiser 140

[Dman1252]

I am replacing my MerCruiser 140, what's the largest motor I can replace it with, without changing the engine mount or outdrive?

 

[achris]

Re: 1979 Chaparral 167 w/ a mercruiser 140

A Mercruiser 140/3litre...

And be careful, that's an MC-1 with a 2 piece rear main seal. Unless you get a flywheel and coupler (with the new engine), you're going to need to stay with a 2 piece rear main. And if you do update to the later flywheel/engine coupler, you'll also need to change the drive input shaft... It's too short for the later engines.

 

[Dman1252]

Re: 1979 Chaparral 167 w/ a mercruiser 140

So my best bet would be to find another mercruiser 140?

 

[achris]

Re: 1979 Chaparral 167 w/ a mercruiser 140

So my best bet would be to find another mercruiser 140?

To fit in the same hole, yes.... There were only 2 engines with that footprint, the 120/2.5litre and the 140/3litre... The next engines up (slightly longer, but still mounted at the front, like the 120/140) were the 470 (discontinued in 1989) and the in-line 6 ('165', discontinued in 1981), after that you end up in the V engines. So, yes, your only option without extensively modifying the hull is another 140...

And before you ask, no, there is very little you can do to increase the output of the 140....

Chris.....

 

[Dman1252]

Re: 1979 Chaparral 167 w/ a mercruiser 140

Thanks Chris! I'm still really new to the boating community so every bit of info helps!