Re: Repower Sunesta 252 (1996) Bobtail vs Long Block
I went thru this back in 2000. In my case the original engine was 15 years old and it was a pretty easy decision to go all new.
I shopped around and bought a new in-the-crate Mercruiser 5.7 EFI from a reputable local marine repair shop (Mercruiser certified) and had them do the complete installation. Because the original engine was carbed they had to run a fuel return line and splice some wiring, but I had a written estimate and they honored it. The whole job took them 9 days, so I only lost 2 boating weekends (yes, it was in the summer...).
FYI- exhaust manifolds were NOT part of the new engine package, but just about everything else was. I bought new Osco's as part of the re-fit.
I honestly don't remember how much I spent, but it was a big chunk of green. I've sold that boat and don't have the reciepts.
One of the good things about a new re-power was that EVERYTHING was covered by the Mercruiser warranty. Not only that, but I was able to sell lots of parts from the old engine, which netted me almost $400. I still have a few parts from that engine lying around here collecting dust.
