Mercruiser 165 Inline 6 Engine swap

anthonylind

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Here are the pictures from the OMC engine. The water system is what scares me the most because I don't understand that very well. It also scares me that this has been sitting in a boat for several years and the guy said he got it running but didn't put any water to it when he did.
 

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Fishermark

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Oct 19, 2003
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5,617
Your old engine was in running condition right? You have two complete engines. Use the manifold and carb from the Mercruiser - it should swap over with no issues. Take a look at your thermostat housing - it is an easy swap if necessary. The head is the same and can stay on the engine. Starter, alt, etc can stay if they work. Front mount and coupler will swap over. You will need to use the existing shift linkage, etc - but again, that should not be an issue as you will be transferring the manifold and carb over.
 

anthonylind

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Two complete engines might be a bit of a stretch. Complete as far as parts but not sure on condition of parts, especially on this OMC motor. My original block was cracked. I had my manifold repaired (welded) so it was already on its last leg as well. From what everyone is saying I understand it is possible but I'm am very hesitant working with parts & pieces that I am not certain of the condition. Especially since I've been burned the last 2 times I've bought things. Maybe I'm just a sucker!
 

Fishermark

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If in doubt about the manifold replace it. It is a bit of money... but no sense in taking a chance with it.
 

anthonylind

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More questions! You guys are amazing btw. I would have blown a bunch of money and wasted effort without your expertise. I have pretty much decided I am selling my boat and starting over. I don't think I am going to have much luck selling it without a motor. Would a 140 mercruiser work with my out drive and gimbal housing? I may have access to a 140 or maybe a 120. I was thinking it would still be powerful enough for a fishing boat for someone.
 

anthonylind

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Sep 17, 2015
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More questions! You guys are amazing btw. I would have blown a bunch of money and wasted effort without your expertise. I have pretty much decided I am selling my boat and starting over. I don't think I am going to have much luck selling it without a motor. Would a 140 mercruiser work with my out drive and gimbal housing? I may have access to a 140 or maybe a 120. I was thinking it would still be powerful enough for a fishing boat for someone.
 

Bondo

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Apr 17, 2002
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Ayuh,... The gear ratio will be wrong, but a prop change might make it serviceable,....
 
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