what is the difference in 3.7 l 165,170,180hp

RCrockett

Seaman
Joined
Jul 19, 2012
Messages
70
In my boat i have a 3.7l 165 motor


I turned a rod bearing and found a couple 3.7l motors cheap one is a 3.7l/LX




The other is a 170




I guess my question is what is the difference? I can see some of the external stuff blots on differently. But i am more concerned with the internal stuff. Is thought it was mostly the carburetor that was the difference in hp but not sure. Should I use the original motor and try to change out the crankshaft? Can I drop in one of these other motors and bolt on the other stuff?

I have been reading a lot and am not finding the answers i am looking for...so any help would be greatly appreciated.
 

Don S

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Aug 31, 2004
Messages
62,321
Re: what is the difference in 3.7 l 165,170,180hp

They are all basically the same except for the 180.
Some minor changes in age (Year of manufacturer) and new designs and ways of measuring HP for the 470, 165, 170, and 3.7L but they were all a 2bbl carb.
The 488, 180, 190, and 3.7LX had a 4 bbl Qjet carb.


You may very well have problems adapting exhaust systems to line up with your transom shield unless you use your original exhaust system.
 

RCrockett

Seaman
Joined
Jul 19, 2012
Messages
70
Re: what is the difference in 3.7 l 165,170,180hp

Thank you Don. That is pretty much what I thought, but wasn't sure. I am leaning towards putting in the 170, It is a nice motor and mostly there. As long as my externals all bolt up to it. Will need to get an alternator while I am at it too.

Thanks again for the info.
 

a1nowell

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
May 12, 2009
Messages
437
Re: what is the difference in 3.7 l 165,170,180hp

Crockett,
If you don't mind my asking, what is cheap? Also, where did you find these engines? My 470 runs great but I have had thoughts of finding another and rebuilding it.

breezeworks.net has a good altenator conversion kit.

Larry
 

RCrockett

Seaman
Joined
Jul 19, 2012
Messages
70
Re: what is the difference in 3.7 l 165,170,180hp

Crockett,
If you don't mind my asking, what is cheap? Also, where did you find these engines? My 470 runs great but I have had thoughts of finding another and rebuilding it

I found them on Craigslist. I was quite surprised. The guy was selling both engines pictured above (long blocks) for $150 each. I bought them both for $240.
 
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