Season Over....
 

Well went to prep the boat earlier today for tomorrows trip and well, the engine was struggling to turn over. Then just before it stopped turning over a very loud clunk was heard. Tried turning over again and the same thing happened. So I got on the phone with a friend, he came over and I showed him what it was doing. He immediately said it might be hydrolocked. So we began to pulling spark plugs. Turned it over and what do you know water started spewing out of every cylinder. What the luck I have. Earlier in the year I was having problems with the engine and look at me now. Since the engine has to come out now, I might as well rebuild or repower depending on how bad it is. Well I will keep everyone informed on what I plan to do and take pics of the whole process. Good thing the said friend has all necessary tools for what ever I decide to do.

Re: Season Over....
 

I know how you feel Jeremy. I spun a rod bearing in the 4.3 that I have , Thursday evening. I just installed it in April. It suks big time!!
I too am trying to decide whether to stay with this engine or go with a MPI setup now.
I guess we both have all winter to think about it and save more money:(
Keep us posted.

Larry

Re: Season Over....
 

It does suck Larry, my only question now is what is the "MAX" horsepower rating for my boat. Since the motor has to be pulled might as well "go big or go home".... And since I run salt and fresh water going to be installing closed circuit cooling among other goodies. This is the ideal time to have everything done like I want. The engine compartment and engine are both going to be as custom as custom can be. Can't wait.

Re: Season Over....
 

The Alpha 1 will take 300 ponies with no problem. That is what Mercruiser rates the Alpha 1 at anyway. You'd be safe at around 330-340 for sure , in my opinion.
As long as you ain't letting the kids drive her.......shoot for 370 HP. Most of the abuse is going to be in the coupler and the U-Joints.
It'll run like it ain't in the water.(cause most of the time it won't be with them ponies) :)

Larry

Re: Season Over....
 

Biggest issue I think you will have is the motor mounts....

Re: Season Over....
 

Are all chevy 350 motor mounts the same? Was just thinking about beefing up old block if there isn't anything wrong with it. I'm in the Army, so this project is gonna have to wait till I return from my next deployment which is just around the corner.... :(

Re: Season Over....
 

Long as you use your mounts and stay with a SB Chevy engine it's all bolt in. No issues whatsoever Jeremy.
BTW........... Thank You For Your Service!!

Re: Season Over....
 

Thanks. I love being in the military, well most of the time... How hard is it to switch over to a MPI engine? Been looking at some pretty nice motors at Michigan Motors, they are pretty expensive but all the work to the motor is already done. Dunno what i'm gonna do as of yet. Good thing I have about a year to think about it and save the money. My only concern now is how do I get all the water out of the block since I am unable to start the motor?

Re: Season Over....
 

Use compressed air on one of your small hoses. Make sure all drains are open. It doesn't take alot - only use about 15-20 lbs of preasure at most. Probably pull the thermostat before you blow it out.

Larry

Re: Season Over....
 

MPI is sweet but hold onto your a**!!! I'm looking at almost 7500 for the complete 4.3 with wiring , computer , all the little necessities.
You could build one hell of a carbed 350 for that!

Larry