New boat, newb Captain

[ibBoatingJimi]

Ok, so the picture below is what is on top of my motor. I have to do a thourough inspection on it as I was just given the boat and haven't had much time to examine and tinker.

After searching online, I have found that my exact motor is

Alpha One / ThunderBolt Ignition
4.3L 175 2bbl (MerCarb) 262 CID

Been sitting, covered, in my friends driveway for 3 years. Exhaust manifold is cracked...and I'll post picture of that once I get home.

Question is, how to tell for sure if that's my exact engine, and is it okay to weld the manifold...or just buy a new one?

 

[Bondo]

Question is, how to tell for sure if that's my exact engine, and is it okay to weld the manifold...or just buy a new one?

Ayuh,.... Welcome Aboard,.... Please read, 'n follow our postin' rules, 'n guidelines,.....
I deleted yer post in the 4 year old thread ya hy-jacked,....

Down low, starboard side just above the starter, there should be an aluminum tag with the motor's serial number on it,...
That'll confirm what the motor is,....

Weldin' the manifold ain't a good idea, as it may be cracked internally, allowin' water into the cylinders, ruinin' the motor,.....

I'd be concerned that not only the manifold wasn't drained, freezin', 'n bustin' it, but the Block wasn't drained, 'n it's also cracked, 'n busted,....

 

[burtonrider11]

A couple of things. If it's a 2bbl carb rated at 175hp, it's going to be an older motor as that is the crank rated HP. Around 1989/1990, manufacturers started rating engines at the prop. The second place to check is on the block itself, there should be a serial number. On mine, it is above the starter, starboard side. Getting the serial number is critical, it will be your guide to virtually any and all parts needed....

If the motor is of the late 80's/early 90's vintage, my take would be to just replace the manifold....ESPECIALLY if you boat in salt water. If the manifolds have never been replaced, I would wager a bet that it's time....