1976 Mercruiser 233 Rochester Carb Issues

[scottjslc]

I have a 1976 Mercruiser 233 (V8) with a Rochester "2 Jet" carb. The numbers on the side of the float bowl are "17056197" and, just below that, "262 5 2". It has an electric choke. I have been replacing the accelerator pump once or twice a season - the rubber "skirt" seal on the pump tears causing the carb to flood. The engine starts and runs wonderfully with a good accel. pump installed. In talking with the parts guy at my local NAPA store (thank goodness they can get the part for me!!), this is apparently not unusual for a Rochester 2BBL.<br /><br />I have several questions:<br /><br />1. Is this actually a 2-barrel carb or a dual-jet single BBL?<br /><br />2. Is there is non-Rochester carb (Holley, Edelbrock, Weber, etc.) or more reliable Rochester that will bolt on and be less troublesome?<br /><br />3. What would be involved in, or is it even possible, to upgrade to a 4BBL for more horsepower. I believe this would require a new intake manifold as well.<br /><br />4. What about electronic fuel injection options (throttle body, I would assume)? Probably "big bucks", but might be an interesting option.<br /><br />I have detailed photos of the carb if they would be helpful - I'd be glad to email them.<br /><br />Any help or thoughts would be greatly appreciated!!

 

[mkast]

Re: 1976 Mercruiser 233 Rochester Carb Issues

Look for an old four barrel cast iron manifold off any engine, correct for the year. If you are in fresh water, any aluminum dual plane four barrel manifold. Look on EBAY for manifold and marine carb. I use marine Holley's, (personal preference).<br />If you use a Holley, you'll need the adapters for the throttle linkage.<br />Think about how much money fuel injection costs, for a 1976? Too much money, for a boat that old, you'll never recover your money.<br />The four barrel route will give you adequate response for the money spent.

 

[Buttanic]

Re: 1976 Mercruiser 233 Rochester Carb Issues

It is a Rochester 2G two barrel. A very simple and reliable carburator. I think you may have a reason other than "this is apparently not unusual for a Rochester 2BBL." Be sure the pump linkage is ajusted correctly and look for any burrs in the pump bore. I don't see how a torn pump piston could cause a flooding problem. I have never run into that problem. The 233 is a Ford and an adapter plate is used to adapt the GM carburator to the Ford manifold. If you want to change carburators I think you could remove the adapter plate and mount a Holley 500 cfm marine 2 barrel directly to the Ford manifold. I had a 75 233 years ago and never experienced any problems with the Rochester.