mercruiser 470 opinions

[sqdqo]

I recently purchased a used boat with a mercruiser 470 engine. While running this past weekend at about 3800rpm the engine failed. I am afraid the engine is seriously damaged. It won't even turn over now. Is it worth rebuilding or should I choose a different engine? Is a 1983 Pursuit 2000. When I say replace, I mean replace the engine with something else.

 

[rbezdon]

Re: mercruiser 470 opinions

With out some more information it is impossible to tell. The main question is exactly what in the engine failed and why and is there any damage to the drive. Also, it depends on if you are planning to do the labor or have a freind or go to a shop of some kind. For the most part, an engine can be fixed for 1 to 2 thousand dollars. If it is just part of the engine like a head or head gasket it can be less. My guess is repairing it will be cheaper than buying a new boat but new boats are pretty expensive!! Then there is buying a new (for you) used boat but there is always the issue of not knowing what you are getting for sure. sq, this is a question only you can answer.<br /><br />By the way, it would ehlp some to post the year and engine size/type in addition to the drive number.

 

[cslaufer]

Re: mercruiser 470 opinions

Hi, I have repowered a few 470 in the past with 4.3 V6 Chevy's, It is quite an easy exercise, also the gear ratio for the two engines are the same. the 470's always had a head gasket issue (Aluminum Block and cast iron head expand at different speeds) and they also consumed their fair amount of gas. If you buy a Complete V6 mercruiser (manifolds starter, flywheel cover....the whole box and ,dice off eBay the only other parts you will need is the y exhaust piece and reposition the side mounts.<br />May cost less to do this than rebuild and in the long run you will be better and cheaper to run engine.

 

[bigbrownbuku]

Re: mercruiser 470 opinions

repower without a doubt in my mind. its going on 20 years since merc stopped making "470's"

 

[sqdqo]

Re: mercruiser 470 opinions

Cameron, Are you saying the outdrive would not have to be changed? How is the power compared to the 470? I'm sure going to a v-8, the outdrive would have to be changed.

 

[bigbrownbuku]

Re: mercruiser 470 opinions

the alpha drive coupled to your 470 is good to ~300 hp. the v6 repower option mentioned is a good one and will net you more hp then your 470 depending on model 30+ more. your 470 is a tired 170 hp engine.

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: mercruiser 470 opinions

Jumping from a 4cyl. to an 8cyl, you would definitately have to change drives......JK

 

[whywhyzed]

Re: mercruiser 470 opinions

the 470 used a V6 ratio drive so you're good to go

 

[sqdqo]

Re: mercruiser 470 opinions

4.3 is the way to go then?