coupler question

[xltier]

i am puttting a 88 5.7 260 hp gm motor in a 1980 sea ray.got a good deal on it but the coupler from the 1980 motor dont fit the 1988 motor.bolt pattern is to big.tried using the trianguler one from the 350 motor and there isnt enough depth clearance nwith the 1980 bell housing which has to be used cause of the width of the motor mounts to the inner transom plate.is anyone aware of a coup[ler that will remedy this.do they make a small bolt circle coupler that isnt the triangle one?ythanks

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: coupler question

Not trying to be a wise ***, but.....
This is one of the reasons why it is important to get an engine of the same vintage......
Your '88 also hase a one piece rear main seal as opposed to the earlier two piece rear main seal.....
You might be able to change the flywheel, but if memory serves right that causes starter mounting issues as well as balance issues......
I am pretty sure there is no coupler for the early style to the new style conversion......
Don't take what I say on this a s gospel, but I'm pretty sure it won't work....
I'd look in the search function for this, as I know it has been addressed before......​

 

[TilliamWe]

Re: coupler question

Haut is right on the one piece rear main seal and I don't think you can change the flywheels.

I am very surprised that the width of the bell housing is different, though. You sure? Maybe changing the inner transom plate would be the easiest??

 

[xltier]

Re: coupler question

the width of the mounts is narrower on the alpha 1.i got a plate and the p.s. steering valve is mounted lower in the bracket and hits on the y-pipe by alot.bought a alpha ypipe and the hole configuration on the bolting is differftent.gimbal housings to match are out of reach at this point.i saw a decent buy on ebay for a housing but it had the offset holes and my ypipe is staight across holes for mounting.[never again].