Mercruiser 4cyl electric shift options

[lalldrin]

I just purchased a 46' houseboat that sunk this last winter. It has a 4 cyl Mercruiser I/O. One salesman said it was 120hp another guy said 140 hp. How can I ID this motor? I dont see any decals or emblems other than "Mercruiser" on the side of the motor. I'm assuming it to be a '70's vintage motor.<br /><br />A mechanic mentioned that the shift linkage is the problem with the MC (cable stretch, poor tolerance to sloppy cable). I have about 30-35' of shift cable and they recommended going to an electric shift conversion. Who makes such a unit? Any other things to consider/upgrade as I rebuild the motor?<br /><br />Thanks,<br /><br />Lance<br />Chico,CA

 

[Bondo]

Re: Mercruiser 4cyl electric shift options

Outward appearence of these two motors is pretty much Identical......<br />Most of the Externals are a direct interchange.....<br />The 140hp, 181cid, 3.0l has a 4" bore.......<br />The 120hp,153cid, 2.5l has a 3 3/4s" or 3 7/8s", I forget, but it's noticable with the head off......<br />The shift cable Problems mentioned, is No Doubt about the Lower-Shift Cable.... It's only a couple feet long,+ the Only way to Fix the Problem, when it arises, is to Replace It......<br />Even if you go with a solenoid shifted replacement for the Upper cable, the Lower cable will Still need Replacing.....<br /><br />And No, I've Seen the Solenoid Shifted Systems, <br />But have No Idea where to buy it........

 

[arboatdr]

Re: Mercruiser 4cyl electric shift options

Teleflex has a new electric shift and throttle kit and Mathers has one as well. The mathers units are very popular here but also quiet expensive. I have not seen the teleflex in action yet.