1989 Raven 195cc

[Free Spirit]

This boat has a 4cyl motor , I've been told that saltwater boat motors only last about 10 years due to the salt eating the block and heads away. This motor is getting harder and more expensive each year to find or build. Can anybody tell me if putting a 4.3 mercruiser or even a 5.7 would work. I've heard the 5.7 would be to heavy. Will the 4.3 v6 match up to the stock volvo trans or is this a bad idea? I know either way I go I've got to replace the wiring harness , this boat also has a volvo 275 outdrive. Thanks

 

[Bondo]

Re: 1989 Raven 195cc

What motor are you starting with,..??
Going to a 4.3l or 5.7l motor will require substantial Outdrive reworking...

 

[captmello]

Re: 1989 Raven 195cc

If you switched to a V6 or V8, you'd need to change your entire drive train, motor mounts, etc., not just the engine. Your best bet is to find a used four cylinder engine.

 

[Free Spirit]

Re: 1989 Raven 195cc

The original motor is a Volvo Penta AQ131D , I was hoping to upgrade to a more modern 4cylinder or at least a v6 Thanks for the help...

 

[Don S]

Re: 1989 Raven 195cc

The original motor is a Volvo Penta AQ131D , I was hoping to upgrade to a more modern 4cylinder or at least a v6 Thanks for the help...

That isn't going to happen with your setup. What ever other engine will also require an exhaust Y (if a V6 or 8) and a different single pipe if another 4.
Then you have to find a flywheel cover with an intermediate shaft for your drive To say nothing about motor mounts and newer 4 cylinders having exhaust on the opposite side of the Volvo engines.
Then there is the water cooled exhaust manifolds and risers and what ever it takes to fit up to your exhaust Y.
Best bet, fix what you have or replace with like engine.
Second best bet.
Find a doner boat with the engine/outdrive combination you want. Put in new transom, cut new hole in transom for what your new system will be and start new.

 

[WorldOfJohnboy]

Re: 1989 Raven 195cc

I have the same make/model boat and mine has a Mercruiser 4 cyl. 3.0L Alpha one I/O. You can probably find parts boats on eBay and Craigslist that have minimally rebuildable engines/outdrives, or even better, working motors with destroyed hulls.

Depending on where you live, I know of a local guy that sells parts boats in Upstate NY if you are willing to pick it up. I just purchased a "parts" boat and got a nice Alpha One outdrive from it. I only paid $450 for the boat and already have nearly made my money back in selling parts!