Mercruiser 3.0L Cracked Block -- What can I expect?

[ssimpson]

I have a 3.0L Mercruiser with a cracked block . What can I expect for a new block and labor for install?<br /><br />Someone on another board mentioned that if its an external crack (I think it is because I dont see any water in the oil) that I could possibly fill it with some JB Weld. I realize this would only be a short term fix, but would it get me through the season? I dunno probably graspin at straw.

 

[f_inscreenname]

Re: Mercruiser 3.0L Cracked Block -- What can I expect?

A lot. Block alone (reconditioned) some where between $400.00 to $600.00 then there is all the other parts you will have to change rings,bearings,gaskets. Im sure you know labor is always three time parts and for pulling a motor complete rebuild (swap out) and reinstall you can see why. If it is a external crack,try having it welded up. A friend of mine fixed his cracked block in about 10 min and has not had any problems. I would give it a try and watch that oil! Dont want to burn up the good parts you have now.

 

[SS MAYFLOAT]

Re: Mercruiser 3.0L Cracked Block -- What can I expect?

Been there, done that too! I had a 4 cylinder 120 horse mercruiser that I got real cheap because a doctor didn't winterize it properly. Cost me a whole $28.00 to fix. I used what is called lacing a block. All you need is a drill bit, pipe tap, and 1/4 inch solid pipe plugs (black iron is best). This procedure works best only on straight line cracks. If it is external, and only in the water jacket, this is the best and cheapest way this redneck has found to fix a block. <br /><br />First take a grinder and grind off the paint around the crack to reveal exactly where it is. Then at the end of the crack, drill your first hole. Tap it, and then put your plug in using a good pipe dope. Then grind off the top of the plug flush with the block. Then drill your second hole overlapping into the first plug by 1/3. Tap it, Plug it, Grind it, and continue until the crack is completely laced up. This is better than welding since welding cast requires a long process if it is done properly. Welding on a block can actually stress the cast iron next to the weld causing a new crack. That is if it is not done properly.<br /><br />This may or may not work for you, but on my repair, it didn't leak a drop. And after all the plugs were ground down smooth, primed and painted, you couldn't even tell that a repair was made. Plus I didn't even have to pull the motor to repair it. Good Luck,

 

[Yepblaze]

Re: Mercruiser 3.0L Cracked Block -- What can I expect?

I remember those. I used them on some chevy heads once. Should be available at auto machine shops.<br />

 

[dhammann]

Re: Mercruiser 3.0L Cracked Block -- What can I expect?

SS Mayfloat sounds like an old timer. Isn't it amazing how much money you can save by getting innovative and rolling up your sleeves? I bought a '89 glassport 3 years ago for a song. Boat was in mint condition except for a little drip under the manifold (3.0 mercruiser). Previous owner spent over $500 at a marine repair shop and when he tried the boat out he noticed water in the bilge, he got so angry he almost begged me to buy his boat. I stole the bought, tightened the 4 transom bolts that holds the outdrive ring onto the transom....I haven't seen any water in bilge in three years!! I still see a little drip under the manifold....SO WHAT!!!!