Re: Engine replacement question
Unless you suggest a better way to check for damage. If I have to get a new motor I plan on buying the new engine from rapidomarine.com
No, running it will be the simplest. I would do it in two stages though. Start it up and just run it long enough to get it to idle. Then shut it down and check the dipstick for milky oil. If it looks ok, then run it again, attempting to get it up to thermostat opening. Keep checking the dipstick as you run it. If there is any sign of milkshake, shut it down and get the oil drained.
I've heard it said, however, that nothing is certain until you get it out and under load, so be cautious if the engine passes it's first tests. Not to be pessemistic but I would not hold my breath, even on the first go around.
On your rapido marine engine, to keep things simple I would stick with the flat tappet 302 not the 5.0 that is pictured on their site. You'd have to change flywheel and front damper otherwize. I would also see if they offer any choice on the compression ratio. The 5.0 pictured appears to have flat top pistons. If that is the case and they use the same pistons in the 302, that would put you up toward the 9.0:1 c/r. Your current engine most likely has dished pistons in it giving it the lower c/r.