Swapping a 488 for a 2.5 possible?

[Scott Farley]

I have a 1983 Imperial v182 with a 2.5 and alpha 1 outdrive. My problem is, I don't have enough power to pull tubes and skiers fast enough. I hate to get rid of the boat, it has a completely new interior and the hull is in good condition. I can get a good deal on a 1988 model 488 complete engine (188 hp). Is this swap possible? Also, I spent a bunch of money on different props. A 17" wont let me reach full rpm pulling a tube, and a 15" only lets me go 23mph (while pulling tube). It is not a worn out engine problem as the engine was completely rebuilt two years ago and has excellent compression, oil pressure, electronic ignition(pertronics), and a rebuilt carb... thanks in advance...

 

[Bondo]

Re: Swapping a 488 for a 2.5 possible?

Ayuh,.... I understand the 120 hp is a tiny motor, but ya really Don't want the 488, as it's a 470 Merc,....

Do a search in this forum for the 470, 'n you'll figure out Why I say that,....

Yer only motor up-grade option is goin' to the 3.0l, 140 hp motor,...

 

[Scott Farley]

Re: Swapping a 488 for a 2.5 possible?

Thanks for the reply. I heartily agree with your slogan.... I am a coal miner and foreman. People constantly come to me with "what kind of grease do I put in _______?". I always say "YES! Put grease in it!". We have bearings with 6" shafts in them that have 10,000 hp pulling on them 24-7. They are ten years old and have had probably ten kinds/types of grease in them and haven't failed yet!