which is better, Merc 120, 140, or 470

[fish-n-fool]

I am looking to replace my 120 and all drive components using donor boat, I have found three candidates one is an older 120 one is a 140 the third has a 470. After reading many threads on all three it sounds like people are not to fond of the 470 why is this and given a choice should I steer clear.What is the differences other than hp?

 

[QC]

Re: which is better, Merc 120, 140, or 470

The 470 is unique animal with a few specific issues; you should read up some more here and pretty much steer clear of that. The 140 would be my choice depending on condition. The 140 is a 3.0 liter and the 120 is a 2.5. Most of the rest is the same between the two, so a swap will be the easiest.

 

[fish-n-fool]

Re: which is better, Merc 120, 140, or 470

Thanks for the info QC. The boat with the 140 was my first choice simply because it appeared to be very well maintained and is owned by an older couple + the price is better. I'm new to iboats and have already found a wealth of info just looking up topics and reading threads. I know I'll be using this site alot.

 

[JustJason]

Re: which is better, Merc 120, 140, or 470

The 120/140's are about the most bulletproof, most reliable engines put into a boat. The 470 on the otherhand is a polar opposite. It's the least bulletproof and least reliable engine Merc every put in a boat.

 

[IES99]

Re: which is better, Merc 120, 140, or 470

140>120>>>>>>470

 

[fish-n-fool]

Re: which is better, Merc 120, 140, or 470

Think I got the picture...or the smilies. I'm done lookin at 470s made app. for this wknd to go test out the boat with the 140 I hope to start my project this summer if we ever get one here in the NW

 

[HT32BSX115]

Re: which is better, Merc 120, 140, or 470

Just look that 3.0L engine over very closely. Drain the block and see if it was winterized.....

Up here in the NW(or anywhere for that matter), the block will crack up under the manifold.

You don't see it until you're running and even then it may only be a drip from somewhere...... USENGINE in Kent gets about $2000 for a long block.....


Good luck....


Rick