Merc 3.0L questions

[searay1989]

I have a 1989 Searay 16 BR that has stringer rot and am going to put a fair amount of money into restoring it. Does anyone know of problems with this year 3.0L and what should I look for. Compression(not warmed up) all four cylinders 120psi. Slight smell of gas in oil, but I changed it and havent run the boat yet. Any info about this motor would be appreciated.

 

[DJ]

Re: Merc 3.0L questions

SR1989,<br /><br />It's a pretty sturdy little engine. Most of them die due to lack of maintenance, not mechanical failure.<br /><br />If the exhaust manifold and elbow are original, I would consider replacing them.