mercruiser 3.7 liter

[LUDOV]

Hi, I've just buy a 1990 cruiser holiday 2670 (loa 26, beam 8, weight 5.600 lbs)with a pair of mercriser 3.7 liter, and I would like to have all the imformations possible on this. Is it enought power, is it an economycal option, and is this engine a good model? <br /><br />Thanks in advance, Ludo<br /><br />PS : I am french, this e-mail is from Paris, France and sorry if there is some mistakes on my english !!!

 

[JB]

Re: mercruiser 3.7 liter

Hi, Ludo.<br /><br />Welcome to iboats. <br /><br />We have a seperate forum for Mercruisers. I will move this there.

 

[MrBill]

Re: mercruiser 3.7 liter

The 3.7L was used as a designator number for the engine in 88 and 89, but the earlier 3.7L Mercruiser 4 cylinder engine was known as many things...470, 485, 488, 165, 170, 190. you apparently have a pair of late 1989's in your boat.<br /><br />Search this site for "3.7L", "3.7" or one of the designation listed above. The 3.7L is an unusual engine and has some design issues that make it one of the most hated and loved engines at the same time. It has proven to be very mechanically reliable but has some unique features that can be corrected.<br /><br />1 - The charging system uses a stator and water-cooled voltage regulator which is subject to early failure. Changing to a standard alternator using an after market conversion kit is easy (about $375 per enigine)<br />2 - Some 3.7L models had 3 inch diameter heat exchangers, four inch exchangers provide adequate cooling if overheating becomes an issue.<br />3 - The closed cooling side water pump is direct driven off the cam shaft. When the first of two seals begins to leak coolant from the bottom of pump, you'll know it's time to replace the seals which requires removal of the cam shaft and frequently the engine, in order to have adequate clearance.<br />4 - Since the 3.7 has a closed cooling system, you'll need to be certain the outdrive (if so equipped) impellers are maintained in good order. I tend to replace mine every other season.<br /><br />Over-all I have had excellent success with my 3.7L, I wish I had converted the charging system years ago. It was easy and has not been a problem since. I also converted to electronic ignition using the Pertronix II (much better than I) for about $85, shop around...prices vary widely.<br /><br />Once again search this site, ther have been alot of post on the subject, and use the schematics on this site....http://www.mercruiserparts.com/