Matching up a new used block Merc 185 (3.8L Gm 229CID)

[Leedanger]

1984 Mercruiser 185
Serial # 6691470
GM V6 3.8L 229 cid

Cracked block, decided to replace it vs epoxy, but I'm having difficulties matching one up. From what I read the 229 cid was only used from 1980-84 which would make sense, but haven't been able to find one locally. However, I read that the block off of a Chev 305 is "identical"....really....?. Here's what I read, keep in mind this is via wiki:

"3.8L (229 CID)

The 229 cid (3,751 cc) engine was first introduced for the 1980 model year and was produced until 1984. This engine replaced the 250 cid in full-size Chevrolets and Camaros as the new base V6. Additionally, the intermediate Chevrolet Malibu and Monte Carlo also used the 229 cid as a replacement for both the 200 cid V6, and the 231 cid Buick V6. Both the Buick V6 and the 229 cid Chevrolet V6 are 90 degree V6 engines, and both are often referred to as the 3.8L V6. These engines should not be confused as being the same, and are completely unique engine designs.
The 229 cid has a 3.736" bore and a 3.48" stroke, identical to the Chevrolet 305 cid V8 engine. The 229 cid used the same 2.45" main bearing and 2.10" rod bearing diameters as the 200 cid V6 engine. Also like the 200 cid V6, the 229 cid used the same crankshaft with the 18 degree offset throws and the same 5.7" connecting rods with 0.050" narrowed ends. It came equipped with 1.84" intake valves and 1.50" exhaust valves. The 229 cid V6 was only equipped with a 2-barrel carburetor. For 1980 the 229 cid used a mechanical Dualjet. From 1981 - 1984 the electronic Dualjet was used along with the GM's CCC (Computer Command Control) system. The 229 cid was rated between 110 and 115 hp (86 kW)." http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/General_Motors_90%C2%B0_V6_engine#3.8L_.28229_CID.29

If this is truly the case I'll have no problem finding a replacement block but I'd definitely like someone to confirm the accuracy of this or maybe better said the accuracy of my understanding. So if I buy a block out of a 1984 Jimmy with a small 305 in it, all of the externals will match up ok?

 

[Howard Sterndrive]

Re: Matching up a new used block Merc 185 (3.8L Gm 229CID)

305 is an 8 cylinder
229 is a 6 cylinder

that article says the bore and stroke of a 229 and 305 is identical which is true

305 X 6, divided by 8 = 229!

1981 TO 1984 Malibu, Monte Carlo, Caprice ,ElCamino, GMC Sprint, and some 81 Camaros WITH 5TH VIN digit = K (5th digit K=229 , and some were built in that era with the 231 Buick/corporate GM V6, so make sure of the K in the VIN)
229 was also found in some Checker cabs

 

[Bondo]

Re: Matching up a new used block Merc 185 (3.8L Gm 229CID)

305 is an 8 cylinder
229 is a 6 cylinder

that article says the bore and stroke of a 229 and 305 is identical which is true

305 X 6, divided by 8 = 229!

1981 TO 1984 Malibu, Monte Carlo, Caprice ,ElCamino, GMC Sprint, and some 81 Camaros WITH 5TH VIN digit = K (5th digit K=229 , and some were built in that era with the 231 Buick/corporate GM V6, so make sure of the K in the VIN)
229 was also found in some Checker cabs

Ayuh,.... That motor Is an Oddball, ain't it Howard,..??
I hear they don't interchange parts very well with the 4.3l either,...?..
Can a complete bobtail 4.3l be dropped in it's place,..??

 

[mr300z87]

Re: Matching up a new used block Merc 185 (3.8L Gm 229CID)

Got to love GM. I could never figure out why merc and Volvo used almost only Chevy motors. Chrysler 318s 5.2L and 360s 5.9L truck engines would have made great stern drive engines. Guess one can only dream about it, and live with my 350 5.7l mercruiser. Was thinking of naming my boat "wish it was a HEMI". The wife shot it down.

Don't know much of the lineage of the GM v6 but as stated above if most of the maninize parts could interchange with a 4.3 the up grade should be relatively easy. Good luck