Changing from Merc to Volvo.

[Gwilson137]

OK, I have bought a project boat because my wife told me to get a hobby. It's a 86 Marathon and had a Merc alpha 1 outdrive in when I got it. Just the Transom Gimble, and I got a Volvo AQ125A motor and 270 outdrive to put in it. I know I will probably have to change the hole in the thansom but I need to repair the transom anyway. My question is how thick should the transom be for the Volvo and the motor I got did not come with front motor mounts, Do I need them or should I start hunting down a set.
Any help would be Greatly appreciated! I have already learned a bunch just reading the different posts here.

Thanks Jay

 

[Don S]

Re: Changing from Merc to Volvo.

Here is the cutout template, in the center of the cutout is the transom dimensions.

http://www.4shared.com/file/93023347/ef6691b3/7751380_270-280_Cutout_template.html

Your model doesn't use front motor mounts.

 

[captmello]

Re: Changing from Merc to Volvo.

Wow, I like your wife already.

Hole needs to be bigger for the volvo, your can buy the template I believe.

Just make sure your positive the volvo is in good running order!!!!

Once you go volvo, you can't go back.

Not sure on the motor mounts issue.

Good luck.

 

[Gwilson137]

Re: Changing from Merc to Volvo.

Thank You, Thank You, Thank You!
Yes she is a keeper. Although when I told her I bought a boat she said she meant a book club or something, But she had a smile and I haven't had to sleep on the boat yet.
The template is just what I needed. I bought the boat for $180.00 with a trailer and the motor and outdrive for $600.00. So at this point even if I have to rebuild the motor (probably will anyway ) I figure I'm still in the black.
Thank you for answering my question so quick. I'm sure I'll have a ton more before I get the bottom of this project wet.
Jay

 

[Fishermark]

Re: Changing from Merc to Volvo.

Your model doesn't use front motor mounts.

I'm not a Volvo guy... but how does an I/O not use front motor mounts? Not doubting, just wondering!

 

[Don S]

Re: Changing from Merc to Volvo.

First you have to understand that the flywheel cover sticks thru the transom shield with 2 big rubber rings and an aluminum ring with 6 bolts holding it onto the transom shield. Then there is another mount below that is used to raise and lower the front of the engine. Shown below.

 

[Fishermark]

Re: Changing from Merc to Volvo.

So the front just hangs in the air. Amazing! I guess it makes for easier access to anything on the front of the engine.

 

[coastalcruiser]

Re: Changing from Merc to Volvo.

Hi Jay
I'm changing over to Volvo too and in my case the LK model, (96-97 production years Duoprop) fit right in to where the merc was. same holes for the bolts, needed to make a minor adjustment and drill 2 more upper holes and i'm all set.
Rob