Marine engine versus auto engine?

[Dysfunctionalone2k1]

Hello Mates.<br /> Can you use a car engine in the place of a marine engine?<br />I have been told that the switch is not possible.<br />I figured as long as you use same type and size of block or lower end of the engine and all the external parts would fit, (ehaust, heat exchangers etc) that the switch would be possible. A local parts store is telling a buddy of mine it is not possible but the seller of the boat said this is what has been done. Any ideas or comments?<br />Ps. The motor appears to be a v-6 buick engine in a 1966 oceanic v made by imp boats. This boat has an evinrude outdrive.<br />Someone please help he is trying to get parts and the parts store say's they cannot help him.<br /> Thanks <br />Richard

 

[Lark40]

Re: Marine engine versus auto engine?

Buick did make a V6 in 1966, but parts are not easy to find (I have a 1966 Buick).<br /><br />There have been many posts here about auto engines in boats. To sum it up, the engine must be "marinized" if it is to last in marine service.<br />This refitting may involve camshaft, entire electrical system, rustproof freeze plugs, and several other parts. Boat engines run at high speeds and loads and car engines must be modified for this service.<br /><br />Your friend may be best off trying to re-power the boat if he really wants to keep it.

 

[wheels4]

Re: Marine engine versus auto engine?

Love my not useable auto engine in my boat.Use brass freeze plugs towing or R.V. cam. S.S head gaskets and saved a few grand.Use all marine electronics but all (as I call it)hard engine parts are the same.(block,crank,pistone,heads,etc.)Good Luck.

 

[Skinsk]

Re: Marine engine versus auto engine?

Actually, the block is the same, but the pistons are different, the lifters are different, headgasket, and the cam are different. As well as the freeze plugs, starter, and alternator. And of course there's the thermostat housing..<br /><br />and I don't think most cars have an outdrive.

 

[Ralph 123]

Re: Marine engine versus auto engine?

Go to Amazon.com and search for "Small Block Chevy Marine Performance" By Moore and read the free excerpt there. It will tell you all the differences between a car engine and a marine engine.... there are many, many. Cars are not built to run at constant high RPMs as boats are. A boat is often compared to driving a car up a very steep hill constantly with the peddle floored. Marine engines are designed much tougher to withstand the much heavier and constant loads.<br /><br />Cam is different, pistons different, gaskets different, timing chain different, water pump different, altenator different, starter different, carb different...etc<br /><br />Contrary to above, pistons are not the same. Autos use cast pistons while marine used forged.<br /><br />Ok enough from me, read the excerpt and read it from a top expert in the field<br /><br />BTW, some of the difference are mandated by the Coast Guard for safety - it is illegal to use an auto starter, carb or altenator. Using them could cause the boat to literally explode.

 

[f_inscreenname]

Re: Marine engine versus auto engine?

Every motor I have installed in a boat started it life in a truck of some sort (truck motor are a little more stout). Not saying they were not rebuilt with the proper marine pieces but there isn't that many things that are different in the main motor its all the “bolt on’s” (starter, carb, ect) that are different. If you have a couple of hours do a search on this subject you will find many different opinions on the subject some pro some con but it is possible.

 

[rhartSilverdale]

Re: Marine engine versus auto engine?

Some other differences are: Camshafts - Marine application has a different power band than in auto and trucks. Also, most crankshafts in car engines are cast iron, whereas most marine engines and some HD truck engines starts out with either forged steel, or nodular iron cranks, since marine applications are much more demanding.