Most common issues...

[elcapitanjim]

Hi again guys,
Well in my first post I asked for info on the Merc 140 hp 4 cyl. So far the info has been very positive. Now, are there different builds/models of the same 4 cyl? If so, which model is the most reliable? Which has the better drive/trans?
What will be the most coomon problems I will have overall with the 4 cyl.

I'm also looking at an 1987 18' with a 170 hp, but not sure if it is an inline 6 or v-6. I hear this was an "experiment" motor gone bad. Any input? Should I stay away from the 170 hp?

I'm leaning more towards th Sea Ray 19' with the little engine that could.
Dealer selling for $4900 in VERY GOOD cond. I saw 1 pic but am going to see in person this Saturday. What should I look for in the engine and drive?

Thanks again for the input!!!!!!

 

[Don S]

Re: Most common issues...

The 170 is a 470 Style engine with a different name, avoid it. It is a 4 cylinder that works out to 3.7L. It's an alumunum block with a Ford 460 head stuck on it.
The 140's are a 3.0L engine basically the same for many years.

 

[elcapitanjim]

Re: Most common issues...

So can a 1985 3.0L engine be an inline six and a four also, or just a four cyl?

 

[Don S]

Re: Most common issues...

Nope, the 3.0L is a 4 cylinder Chevy engine.

 

[elcapitanjim]

Re: Most common issues...

Thanks Don!

I got the feeling I should stay away from the Sea Ray 19' with this motor. Most of the time I will be riding with 4 to six adults in it. Not in the ocean but in lakes. I live in Illinois. Will I have enough power to run it on lakes and rivers? Or should I just keep lokking and get a boat with more hp? I don't plan on skiing. Maybe pull the kids on a tube once in a while.

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: Most common issues...

I would take the 140 HP GM before the 170 (470).....
I would not even consider a 4 cyl 170, the last time one rolled off the assembly line was in '89.....
If you are new to boating & wrenching the 470 is not for you.....​