Engine compatablilty 1979 Mercruiser 305 and 1983 Mercruiser 305

jimrockireland

Petty Officer 2nd Class
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Jul 8, 2013
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141
I need to replace a 1983 Mercruiser 305/5L MCM 228 (serial#6275628) or at least the block. I have a chance to get 1979 Mercruiser 305 898 engine (198HP). Are these engines compatible in terms of the block and should I be able to swap carbrators, manifolds, distributors, etc. Are the sterndrives interchangeable?
 

RogersJetboat454

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Jul 9, 2010
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Re: Engine compatablilty 1979 Mercruiser 305 and 1983 Mercruiser 305

Yes...

The only physical difference you would encounter between a '79 and '83 engine is the location of the dipstick (oil pan also needs to match the block), if they used the block mounted dipstick. Everything else is interchangeable.
 
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Bondo

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Apr 17, 2002
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70,465
Re: Engine compatablilty 1979 Mercruiser 305 and 1983 Mercruiser 305

Yes...

The only physical difference you would encounter between a '79 and '83 engine is the location of the dipstick (oil pan also needs to match the block), if they used the block mounted dipstick. Everything else is interchangeable.

Ayuh,... Agreed,... The dipstick swapped sides in '79, 'n the rear main in '86, so they Should be the Same,...
 
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