Trent, Walter Assist please block type?

[Bob_VT]

Okay I have a superb running 470/170 (stop laughing!!!) and this winter I might start shopping for a project motor. I was considering a V-8 to bolt up to my outdrive (early 1985 Alpha I not a MR). What should I be hunting for (besides deer and turkey )? A 351W Ford motor since the 470 is a Ford or can I search for a GM block?<br /><br />The hull will handle it (22' Marathon deep vee).<br /><br />Thanks, <br /><br />Bob

 

[Trent]

Re: Trent, Walter Assist please block type?

Your asking for it now! <br /><br />This kind of project will get REAL expensive but can be done. Manafolds, risers, brackets and several odds and ends will cost a bunch! Either find a junk boat with the stuff you need or keep running the 470 (cant believe I just said that <br /><br />I personally like the 350 Chevy. Parts are a dime a dozen and it preforms well.

 

[Walter]

Re: Trent, Walter Assist please block type?

Yeah...you're looking at a complete repower...I can't think of anything on your 470 that'll swap over to a small block. I don't think you'll have any problems connecting your stern drive to a small block...but it may be necessary to change the outdrive's gear ratio.<br /><br />I'm with Trent...I'd be looking for a used Chev 350 package. There are plenty of them out there...but be careful not to buy someone else's headache. New exhaust manifolds and riser's will set ya back about $700...maybe a bit more. OUCH!<br /><br />Shop around...I'm sure there are some good deals out there...<br /><br />Good luck<br /><br />Walt

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Trent, Walter Assist please block type?

Thank you gentleman. Yes I think this rig will stay 470 for the rest of it's life unless I fall into a good 350 deal.<br /><br />Bob

 

[Capt Ken]

Re: Trent, Walter Assist please block type?

If you find a good engine deal, you better hope you find an Alpha deal also. The gearing in the 3.7 setup you have will only match up to a 4.3 V6 engine. I believe its 1.82:1 where the V8 is 1.50:1. The V6 gears won't hold up to the V8 for long.

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Trent, Walter Assist please block type?

Did I say "superb running 470/170" well someone slap me hard . It dropped dead on me yesterday 45 miles from my truck and trailer. ( I can hear Trent and Walter laughing as this is read)<br /><br />I was able to limp it to shore but the whole episode is not one I ever care to repeat. I had spark, no mixed fluids, and tons of frustration.<br /><br />I found there was raw gas in the weep line on the fuel pump. New fuel pump and tossed in a new cap and rotor just for good measure. Next week will tell the tale. .....I hope <br /><br />Bob

 

[Trent]

Re: Trent, Walter Assist please block type?

Glad you made it back safe! Ya cant blame the 470 for this (if its the problem you described) Dont even ask Ken about the 470 he hates them worst than me... <br /><br />I dont really hate them.. They just make money for alot of mechanics out their!

 

[MrBill]

Re: Trent, Walter Assist please block type?

BobVT:<br />I don't mean to split hairs but...Captain Ken suggested gearing is 1.82:1 This may be minor but my manual saya 1.84:1