Destroyed Mercruiser 898 - 305 engine - what are my options ?

[slickcraft305]

Hi there,

I have a an old slickcraft from 1977 with a Mercruiser 898 - 305 (228hp) inboard engine. The engine was faulty repaired and has been in the water, taking water in and now the engine block seems to be destroyed.

As I can read, many recommend buying an restored new engine 305 or 350 - and I guess this is an advise I have to follow.

Next challenge: I do not know much about engines and also need a mechanic to install the engine if I buy one. Many tells me to "be careful" when importing a used engine.

Can anyone offer me advise where to look for a trusted engine (which can be shipped to Denmark) - how to avoid "hoax-repaired" engine etc.. any advise is much appreciated - especially the total costs I should expect for buying a good used engine, installing machanic hours etc..

Also, I wonder - since I am not looking for more engine power - IS it possible to install an outboard engine in a boat born with an inboard engine and outboard stern drive ? - just wondering about all options.

Hope someone can guide me in the right direction.

Thanks for a great forum.

best/Flemming

 

[Scott Danforth]

I would get a new motor with new manifolds /risers and have it sent your way.

you could also find a newer boat over there with a 5.7 liter (350) and a Alpha 1, Gen 2 (post 1991) with a bad or damaged hull and transfer the whole long-tail.

 

[alldodge]

If you go with a remanufactured motor go with a big name like Michigan Motorz, Summitt Racing, Jasper Engines and the like. Don't use one on ebay unless they are also one that does a lot of them. Otherwise get a new crate motor.

You can change over to an outboard by filling in the outdrive whole and rebuilding the transom area. Some have even built an extension box to hold the OB further away from the transom

 

[harleyman1975]

That engine is same as in a Chevrolet truck. you might be able to find one with a good engine in a salvage yard...even in Denmark. The issue I have is perhaps the manifolds are bad and that is what allowed water into your engine. that all needs to be checked very carefully. Michigan motorz sells a complete engine with manifolds for about $7000.00 USD the shipping would probably be the thing that you will have to deal with. Good Luck.

 

[kenny nunez]

Another source is Atlantic Marine. Google atlanticmarinestores. They have rebuilt packages. Does your engine have a 2 or 4 barrel carburetor. You posted a 898 then 228. I have personally used Jasper with good results. A friend who has a repair shop uses Atlantic Marine and is satisfied. For new also check MARINE POWER in Pontchotula Louisiana. They also sell manifolds. A marine short block is a bare engine from intake manifold to oil pan. Which would be the the cheapest for you. The main thing as already posted is a complete set of manifolds. Hope this helps.