Could someone with OMC engine swap knowledge assist?

[gierrmo]

I through a rod in my 1989 4.3L OMC cobra I/O powered 18' galaxie. I have a complete 350 that I was thinking about building and putting in the 4.3's place. I've heard the upper gear is lower in the OMC v6 outdrive. If i install the 350 could I fix this by propping the boat different or will I have to buy a new gear, what about the tensile strength of the gear? I know I will have to have different motor mounts. I will have all marine equipment, exaust ect. Are there any other major problems I will run into? Is it worth time and money or should i just find another 4.3 block? If I attempt to find a block, what years will work, I've heard 87-91? from one scourse, 85-94 from another. thanks

 

[Walter]

Re: Could someone with OMC engine swap knowledge assist?

Seems to me the best approach would be to find a rebuilt 4.3...and install the accessories from your trashed engine onto it. To switch from a 4.3 to a 350 will...as you've pointed out...require a lot of exta effort and parts. It adds up to quite a few $$$. <br /><br />I can't say for sure what other model year will work for you...I'm sure there are some minor differences from year to year...but enough that you couldn't make it work?? I dunno... <br /><br />If you had a 305 and wanted to step up to a 350...no problem. But switching from a V-6 to a V-8 will be a pain. Do-able...but a spendy pain.<br /><br />MHO<br /><br />Walt

 

[nightride]

Re: Could someone with OMC engine swap knowledge assist?

like walter said it would be a pain the gears wont hold up going from a v6 to a 350 your looking at 500.00 just for gears and bearing aftermarket pick up another v6 1987 to 1993 will fit the omc outdrive i have the same thing v6 with a omc cobra outdrive a freind of mind is picking up another outdrive for me a v8 so i got to change the gears myself to bad we didnt live closer id swap with you the v6 for the v8

 

[gierrmo]

Re: Could someone with OMC engine swap knowledge assist?

Thank you both for the help.