Engine compatibilty

Dennas

Cadet
Joined
Jun 12, 2013
Messages
7
I have a 1986 3 litre 140 HP 181 cid Mercruiser. The head is cracked. Will a 2.3 litre head fit? Are Merc OMC and Volvo compatible? What years work? Please advise. Thank you
 

Scott Danforth

Grumpy Vintage Moderator still playing with boats
Staff member
Joined
Jul 23, 2011
Messages
51,085
Re: Engine compatibilty

No, the 2.3 liter motor is a Ford Pinto motor, the 3 liter is a GM industrial engine division motor. The head doesnt know if the drive is a volvo, merc, or OMC. so from that point, you should be able to find another 3.0 head and be back boating.
 

Bondo

Moderator
Staff member
Joined
Apr 17, 2002
Messages
71,276
Re: Engine compatibilty

I have a 1986 3 litre 140 HP 181 cid Mercruiser. The head is cracked. Will a 2.3 litre head fit? Are Merc OMC and Volvo compatible? What years work? Please advise. Thank you

Ayuh,.... Welcome Aboard,.... A 3.0l or a 2.5l head from a GM marine/ industrial motor will bolt on, 'n run,...
They really ain't changed much since the 60s, so vintage ain't all that important,...
There Are differences, but any of 'em will mount, 'n run,...

'n No,... ya can't bolt a Ford head on a GM motor,....
 
Top