Question about changing engines and outdrives in a boat

[thormx11]

Im looking at a project (1988 Baja) with no motor or outdrive. I would believe the boat either had a 454 or 350 engine in it.

Ive got a mercruiser 305 that is about a mid 70's to mid 80's laying around that runs great with the outdrive.

Would it be feasable to put the 305 into the Baja? Or would it be more work than its worth?

 

[Reel Poor]

Re: Question about changing engines and outdrives in a boat

What size boat?

 

[thormx11]

Re: Question about changing engines and outdrives in a boat

the baja is a 23', the engine is in a mark twain, about 18'

 

[Bamaman1]

Re: Question about changing engines and outdrives in a boat

I wouldn't consider repowering with an older engine. It might bring great frustrations upon yourself.

Only way I would transplant an engine and/or outdrive is if everything is of the same approximate age.

Mercury is very slow to make changes, but they do change outdrives and other items from time to time.

The 305 engine was actually a little marginal to begin with--especially from the mid 70's. The 350 engine is much stronger for the same price used.

 

[greg82255]

Re: Question about changing engines and outdrives in a boat

If that Baja had a mercruiser small block in it then your 305 should go right in. If it had a mercruiser big block the front motor mounts may need to move. However, putting an old 305 in a 23' boat may give you results you aren't happy with.