Mercruiser 3.0LX Engine Block Interchange?

[oldnnew]

Hi. I have a 3.0LX Mercruiser (1996) that has a cracked block. I'm looking for a good used engine and have found several older Mercruisers at a reaonable price. However, they are rated at different horsepower than mine (120 compared to mine at 135). Can anyone tell me if there are any differences in the shortblock of each of these engines? Can I bolt on my head, manifold, carb. etc., to an older short block and end up with a 135hp? Any help would be appreciated! Thanks!

 

[matt167]

Re: Mercruiser 3.0LX Engine Block Interchange?

1990-2013 3.0L blocks will work for you. Merc, Volvo or even OMC. Just use your setup and sell the Volvo/ OMC stuff if you go that route.. Crank changed in 1990 so that's why the old motors won't work

 

[Bondo]

Re: Mercruiser 3.0LX Engine Block Interchange?

Hi. I have a 3.0LX Mercruiser (1996) that has a cracked block. I'm looking for a good used engine and have found several older Mercruisers at a reaonable price. However, they are rated at different horsepower than mine (120 compared to mine at 135). Can anyone tell me if there are any differences in the shortblock of each of these engines? Can I bolt on my head, manifold, carb. etc., to an older short block and end up with a 135hp? Any help would be appreciated! Thanks!

Ayuh,.... Welcome Aboard,.... Most of the 110 hp, 'n 120 hp motors are 2.5l blocks,...

The 3.0l motor has usually been rated from 130 hp to 140 hp,...

The 2.5l has only a crank pulley, the 3.0l has the pulley, 'n harmonic balancer,...

Any, 'n All of 'em can be made to fit yer boat,... Long block, for Long block,...
The only real fitment issue is the crankshaft bolt pattern, but aftermarket refit couplers will cure that,...

You'll wanta use all yer '96 accessories anyways,...

 

[oldnnew]

Re: Mercruiser 3.0LX Engine Block Interchange?

Thanks for the info! My brother turned me on to this site and told me that there were a lot of helpful people here. He was right! Thanks again!