Mercruiser Cast Iron block life expectancy in fresh water??

[tank1949]

I am looking at several boats around the Great Lakes area that have Mercruiser Chevy v8s (cast iron) raw water cooled blocks with Aluminum outdrives. Here in Florida, cast iron raw water blocks last around 8-10 years, if you flush them with fresh water religiously after each use in salt water. The manifolds 5-6 years. It is my understanding that boaters up north must winterize their motors, or they will freeze and crack blocks. So typically what is the life expectancy of a Chevy cast iron block used in the Great Lakes?

I would expect 10 years or more. But, I don't live there.

 

[Bondo]

So typically what is the life expectancy of a Chevy cast iron block used in the Great Lakes?

Ayuh,.... They'll last til the 1st time it ain't drainin' in freezin' weather,.....

In sweetwater, motors are usually killed by their owners, 'n rarely wear out,... they never rust out,....

 

[harleyman1975]

Yeah rotten blocks are not an issue in MN. it is cracked from freezing if not drained that does 'em in. I had a 302 in a 72 cruisers inc that was as good as new! And it is still out plying the waters to this day!

 

[Starcraft5834]

Ayuh,.... They'll last til the 1st time it ain't drainin' in freezin' weather,.....

In sweetwater, motors are usually killed by their owners, 'n rarely wear out,... they never rust out,....

LOL,, perfect answer, my thought was.... pretty much forever........ unless the owner kills it

 

[tank1949]

THX!!!

 

[thumpar]

The block will last longer than the boat. My old 83 was solid.

 

[Scott Danforth]

My boat is an '88 and spent most of its life in the bay of green bay. It's now down in Florida. Fresh water boat motors last longer than the hulls do