new to this world of boating projects-still a glass half full guy

I have just purchased a '90 Sea Ray Sport I/O 180. Unit has no engine, outdrive, trim pump or rams. A 4.3 V6 came out of it. It does have gimbal housing with bellows, exhaust y-pipe with boots & elbows, complete gimbal transom plate with engine mounts. As I look for engines, if something other than a 4.3 is installed, will alterations to the existing setup be necessary, thus incurring more installation expense? Also, are some engines models historically more prone to problems than others? Does anyone have an opinion as to the cost of operating a 6 cylinder vs an 8 cylinder? Also, what is the least amount and the upper limit of hp that should be considered? Thanks in advance. Hopefully some day I'll be on the answer giving side!!!!!

Re: new to this world of boating projects-still a glass half full guy

Hello

I would look around and see if the factory put a V8 in that boat. I think so but check for sure. If so I would try for a V8 or at lease a V6. The 8 will be a few inches longer and some times has a problem with a gas tank or the motor cover. a 4 will work ok. a 6 will be very good and a 8 will be great. If you operate the same speed the size of the engine will not mater much. I would look for a complete rig with a bad hull that you can test. If you fine a 4.3 everything will line up and you will have some extra parts.

Re: new to this world of boating projects-still a glass half full guy

Thanks. This is on ebay. A hole in the pan does not sound like the end of the world. What do you think? What questions should I be asking of the seller?

"the motor is a 4.3 chevy mercruiser. the bad news it will have to be replaced or rebuilt.has a hole in the pan.has all the parts on the engine though.i had it running and it just quit."

THANKS!!!!!

Re: new to this world of boating projects-still a glass half full guy

I guess I would wonder why the motor and outdrive is gone. Was that the bad hull that someone sold the motor and outdrive out of? IMHO before you go any farther you need to get someone knowledgeable to give that hull a through examination. If you have a rotten transom or stringers, it could be way more trouble and expense then it is worth. Hope the glass stays half full.

Re: new to this world of boating projects-still a glass half full guy

Thanks for the reply. But I think there is some confusion. I've already bought the Sea Ray and it is solid. The drive unit was bad and removed. One I'm looking at now is on ebay (item #250866700528). Take a look and it might make more sense. If you do, let me know what it might mean about a hole in the pan? Costly? THANKS.

Re: new to this world of boating projects-still a glass half full guy

kneedeepbc said:

let me know what it might mean about a hole in the pan? Costly? THANKS.

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Big trouble! Could very well be.