frame how to for engine change

[cantaris]

I am going to change my merc 165 L6 engine and outdrive to a merc with 302 ford V8. So the help I need is with the frames that support the engine. What is the process for adding frames to support V8? How long does the frames have to be? This is going into my 24 ft Reinell project. Thanks for any advise.

 

[oops!]

Re: frame how to for engine change

the hull extension thread has detailed pics.....

but....can you take pics of the existing motor cage.....the chances are it will be very simelar.....the 4 namgers and in line six'es just had a mount at the front you wont need

 

[MikDee]

Re: frame how to for engine change

I'm guessing you know there won't be much difference in speed, & power, with the Ford 302 (165hp vs. 188hp each with a 2bbl) Plus, it's getting harder to find parts for the Ford, I'd suggest a 350 Chevy, or if you want to be thrifty a 305 Chevy is a long stroke, small bore design, as opposed to a short stroke big bore 302, and would be better on gas. Either way, I had an old 24' SeaRay Cuddy with a 350/260hp Merc, that just about made 40mph.

Anyway, I would say that on each side of the motor well there should be a solid frame for you to fasten lumber to, for your side motor mounts, the bell housing is supported in the rear (for the rear mounts) by the outdrive assembly itself.

 

[cantaris]

Re: frame how to for engine change

I'm guessing you know there won't be much difference in speed, & power, with the Ford 302 (165hp vs. 188hp each with a 2bbl) Plus, it's getting harder to find parts for the Ford, I'd suggest a 350 Chevy, or if you want to be thrifty a 305 Chevy is a long stroke, small bore design, as opposed to a short stroke big bore 302, and would be better on gas. Either way, I had an old 24' SeaRay Cuddy with a 350/260hp Merc, that just about made 40mph.

Anyway, I would say that on each side of the motor well there should be a solid frame for you to fasten lumber to, for your side motor mounts, the bell housing is supported in the rear (for the rear mounts) by the outdrive assembly itself.

I understand HP might close,but I am looking at replaceing a possibly cracked 165 engine. Theoutdrive that is on my boat is a 120/140 which has a different gear ratio. I can buy a boat for $700 that has the complete 302, outdrive, gimble, pumps, trimtabs(which cost 300-600), steering and gages for my second helm, forward bow hatch, full size swim platform, etc. The donor is a bayliner but has been frankensteined and is hideous. Trailer looks to be in good condition. I am just looking at the least expensive route(maybe not the best). I just don't have 4000 or more to put in a fwc chevy and outdrive. Maybe in a couple of years. I am not really looking for a speed demon, if I get 25-30mph that would be fine. Maybe it is better for me to stick with the 165.

 

[contractorguy]

Re: frame how to for engine change

We gotta have pics of the donor

What parts are hard to find for a 302 ford? Manifolds maybe...

I think the difference in a v-8 swap is more than just hp... The v-8 will pull all day at 3800rpm, and the I-6 will be screaming at that speed.

If it was an OMC drive...

 

[MikDee]

Re: frame how to for engine change

I see your reasoning now. Having all the parts available reasonably, Yes it sounds like your best bet.

True, 20yrs ago I had 2 versions of the same boat, (an 18' Wellcraft Airslot) with each of these respective motors. The 302V8 was better, it had more power, and ran smoother at all speeds. If you could find a 4bbl, & manifold for the V8 it would be even better, it's a Windsor design, and I had no luck finding one back then, and I didn't want to spend the dough for a new one

You could possibly mount a couple of heavy duty pieces of angle iron to the sides of he motor well for your front side mounts. Once you get the outdrive mid section on, I would bolt it all together to the bellhousing, & rear mounts (temporarily), put an alignment tool in the drive to get your height right especially, mark out where to put your side mounts, then just unbolt, & swing your motor out of the way, and put the mounts in.