4.3L Vortec edelbrock tuning

[Brandon H.]

I bought a used (but in good shape) Edelbrock 1409 for my 1996 MerCruiser 4.3L and I need help getting it setup for this motor. I was going to order the 1485 calibration kit but I read here that is for pre-vortec engines. Mine is Vortec. I was thinking about going one side bigger on the jets and next richer metering rod but I need to know if that will help so i know what to order. Does anyone here know a good baseline for the vortec motor and that carb? Id rather run rich than lean.

Also i bought this boat for a steal knowing i was taking a chance on the motor. The owner went to start the boat on the water and it wouldnt start he said it would just click. After pulling the plugs there was water in the cylinders so I got the price down 2k. I clearing it out by removing plugs and unhooked the manifold hose. Ran the engine for under a minute on the hose and it ran fine no smoke, ticks, knocks, or Vibrations. Would it be safe to say this is most like just a manifold or manifold gasket failure? I have no idea how to check for a head gasket failure on a boat without having a radiator (my first boat).

Thanks for any advice.

 

[Rick Stephens]

It is true, the 1485 calibration kit is useless. I went through calibrating on a Vortec, you can read the post here. Good starting point. Then read the directions carefully to fine tune to your motor.

No one can answer the question of what is most likely cause of water in cylinders. Anything from a bad manifold, being left out in the rain with the carb uncovered, shutters burnt out and so on. Reality is what it is.

 

[Brandon H.]

Thank you Rick, just read that article. Just what I needed. Thanks for doing all the dirty work .

I will research further when I tear the manifolds off for the water issue

 

[Brandon H.]

Ok so all the carb parts are ordered that you ran, we are close enough elevation wise that it should be a solid baseline.

Now I want to order manifolds and risers by tomorrow, is there any brand thats prefered over the other? Or just order whatever deal Ebay has?

 

[Rick Stephens]

I have seen some great buys here and there. If I find something, I'll post it back. There are definitely brands you don't want.

 

[Scott Danforth]

OEM Mercruiser, OSCO, Barr are good