Merc 233 repowering? Is it worth it

[Tiwaz]

Hello all,
I am currently looking a used boat with a cracked block. It has a Merc 233 w/ a merc 888 outdrive. What options do I have to repower this? Is it possible to change to Chevy power without changing the outdrive or is it not worth it?
At this point I should state that I am new to boats but not engine building and fabricating. So a little work doesn't scare me but I am not looking to reinvent the wheel here either.
The main reason that I would like to go with Chevy power is that I have a couple of small blocks in the garage. I also know that I will need to step back and look at this project with some clearer eyes as most projects that look like a good deal rarely work out that way.

Thanks in advance for any light that can be shed my way.

 

[mkast]

Re: Merc 233 repowering? Is it worth it

Of course it can be done.
Cost and time will make you step away from it in the future.
If you don't do it ONCE, you'll never know.

 

[Uraijit]

Re: Merc 233 repowering? Is it worth it

Yup.

You'll need a complete system though, so having a Chevy long block isn't going to necessarily translate into any savings.

You're going to need intake manifold, exhaust manifolds, marine carbs and ignition components. Alternator, starter, marine water pump Chevy engine mounts, Chevy coupler...

And lots of little stupid parts like the thermostat housing, etc.

It's gonna add up real quick!

If it were me, I'd just go to a junk-yard, and pull another 351 or a 302 to put in there.

Then just sell it, and get something with a Chevy already in it.

If you're in love with the hull, then the re-power is doable, but probably not going to be the most cost-effective route to take...

If you can find a complete bobtail engine (engine with all components and manifolds) for a reasonable price, that might make things cheaper than trying to buy all of the parts separately.

 

[mrflip2]

Re: Merc 233 repowering? Is it worth it

I have to say that the 233 that I have is very strong.
What is damaged on the engine? If it were me I'd pull it and rebuild or get a new block there not that expensive about 1600 here in Reno. Then you have a strong engine and a easy to work on boat. Now before any body says anything I like Fords and I like chevys have had both without problems

 

[Tiwaz]

Re: Merc 233 repowering? Is it worth it

I have to say that the 233 that I have is very strong.
What is damaged on the engine? If it were me I'd pull it and rebuild or get a new block there not that expensive about 1600 here in Reno. Then you have a strong engine and a easy to work on boat. Now before any body says anything I like Fords and I like chevys have had both without problems

I don't know yet what exactly is damaged. The boat i sabout 3 1/2 hours away from me. So I'll probably only get one chance to look at it and decide. Added to this is that the hull is a '77 Fiberform 26' Command bridge. But those issues are for another thread.

I suppose that It would be easier and cheaper just to stick with the Ford. It won't hurt to learn something new.

Thanks for the answers guys.