New guy in IL.

[tonka329]

Hello, new to the forum and new to the Mercruiser world. Just picked up a '78 Sea Ray 18' with the 350 in it. I believe the carb is a Quadrajet. The last time it was registered was 2003. I got it to run about 3-4 seconds on starting fluid. However, I am going to my local O'reillys to see what parts I can get. I took the water pump off and it was full of rust but, looks like the engine ports were still clear of rust. Wanting to get it running strong and making it look good with some interior TLC. Any tips or tricks for this old boat would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance!! Located near Kankakee for the fellow Illinois folks!

 

[Rick Stephens]

Sounds like you need to start at one end of the fuel system (tank) and clean your way to the carburetor. No tricks except do it right. Get the Mercruiser OEM manuals, they are essential.

Also read the Adults Only Thread at the top of the Mercruiser IO forums.

 

[Eric 3.7LX Alpha 1]

Welcome,

It may be a Chevy 350, but many engine parts are marine. The water pump, alternator, starter, distributor, carb, and fuel pump are different than auto parts, designed to prevent sparks from escaping and cause a potential fire/explosion if there is a fuel leak under the engine cover.

If you do replace any get the correct parts...

 

[tonka329]

Sounds good. Who or where is a good place to get these parts?

 

[Scott Danforth]

Depending on the parts you are looking for, iBoats is one source, then there is always West Marine, NAPA even sells marine parts

 

[tonka329]

I would like to support the forum here. Just click on the parts link on the top for iBoats store?

 

[Bondo]

I would like to support the forum here. Just click on the parts link on the top for iBoats store?

Ayuh,..... Welcome Aboard,..... That's Exactly how it's done, then follow the prompts,....... Thank you btw,......

 

[tonka329]

Sounds good. My engine serial # is D716624. It would not let me download the file to check my number.