Reliability and Available Parts - 1978 Mercruiser 260 (5.7)

[ewpvic]

I have a chance to get a really cool fishing boat for my uncle. It has the old log style manifolds (I know they are getting pricy). It is in good running condition.

Any scary reliability issues with that era engine and pre Alpha outdrive?

 

[flipbro]

Nope good engine and drive Check oil in motor for water and check oil in leg for water if all looks good and boat is sound go have some fun

 

[achris]

There is no drive called 'pre-alpha'. If it's 1978, then it's a 'Mercruiser-1' drive (MC-1 for short).... Only thing, you MUST change the impeller at least every 2 years, annual is better.

 

[ewpvic]

:blue: Well there is water in the oil. Engine runs like a top (for the 30 seconds that we ran it). The guys thinks it is the starboard riser. Is that a possibility?

I don't mind getting dirty, but I don't want an extreme project. Outdrive is in fantastic shape. The engine had been winterized.

 

[achris]

Water in the engine oil? From a cracked elbow, yes, quite possible. But I would want to pressure test the engine block/heads/manifolds before making any assumptions...

Chris......