Re: 470 MerCruiser
Wow I thought I was gonna be the only one here with a 470, everyone else seems to hate them! I am already impressed with mine firing right up after being dead for years...I need to change spark plugs, can I just go to an auto parts store and get plugs for a Ford 460 or are they different plugs?
Welcome Dani!
Don't worry about the haters here. We all hate something. At least the boat isn't a Bayliner, then you'd really be hearing it! LOL
As for the spark plugs, pull one, and go into your local NAPA store. They'll have what you need, and it won't be marine store pricing.
As for (just about) everything else you may replace, get the proper MARINE replacement (even things like basic wires). Automotive parts aren't made to withstand the rigors of a marine environment, and the longevity of the marine part will outweigh the savings of the automotive version.
A boat engine, which is designed to take you places you can't walk back from, should be treated as a piece of life-saving equipment, and not just a people mover. You don't want to break down offshore, or in the middle of a storm, or during a tidal change, or at dusk when you weren't planning on being out at night, or when you get to the ramp, and your day of boating is ruined because of an engine failure. The list goes on forever. Boating is not a cheap hobby, and as such, be prepared to spend extra on the 'marine tax' on items that look jusr like what you put in your car but cost twice (or more) as much. There are tons of ways to save the $$$, but don't go cheap.
Other then that... enjoy the world of boating! (After you take a safe boater's course).
