will Mercruiser replace an engine?

[kopy kat]

Just found out that my third set of heads have cracked. '99 5.7 EFI with about 165 hrs. on it (bought new in '01-so this is the fourth boating season). I've had the OBC checked, and no recorded spikes, nor did the alarm go off. The impeller has been repaced each spring, and new t-stat installed. The prior work has been done by two different shops, each with Mercruiser "certified" techs. I really feel that there is a problem with the base engine. so the question now is---does anyone know if Mercruiser will replace an engine? Thanks in advance-Larry

 

[Don S]

Re: will Mercruiser replace an engine?

Depends on the circumstances. Call Merc customer service! You should have their customer service number in your warrenty paperwork.

 

[P.V.]

Re: will Mercruiser replace an engine?

Have the Merc, dealer call for you! That's his job!! If you call, the dealer will have to get involved anyway, have HIM call Merc with the specifics!!

 

[DJ]

Re: will Mercruiser replace an engine?

A block will usually not cuase heads to crack.<br /><br />I would be looking at how water can back up into the engine when the boat comes to a stop or is at rest.<br /><br />Flappers?<br /><br />Boat sits stern heavy?

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: will Mercruiser replace an engine?

To add to DJs last line-----Sudden throttle downs,the opposite of jack-rabbit starts.Charlie

 

[kopy kat]

Re: will Mercruiser replace an engine?

no quick shut downs, or jack rabbit starts---at $3.20 per gallon of gas, I try to be as fuel efficient as possible--that's why I normally cruise at around 3,000 rpm. Any way--thanks for the responses--Larry

 

[DHPMARINE]

Re: will Mercruiser replace an engine?

Kopy kat,55 hours per set of heads time three.Mercruiser will at least listen to you.When and where do the heads crack?If the valves,or pistons are failing,I'd check the outdrive gear ratio.<br />DHP

 

[Don S]

Re: will Mercruiser replace an engine?

If you can give me the serial number of your engine, I can check some Merc and OEM service bulletins on your engine.

 

[kopy kat]

Re: will Mercruiser replace an engine?

Thanks Don S---s/n OL346440. And the cracks have been right in the middle, between cylinders 2-3 and 6-7.<br /><br />I'm hoping the new shop I'm taking it to will be able to shed some light on the cause. <br /><br />Thanks again-Larry

 

[Don S]

Re: will Mercruiser replace an engine?

I checked all the bulletins, and there is nothing indicating any problems with heads or head gaskets in your serial number range.<br />I did check your warranty claims and it seems there has never been a warranty claim on your engine of any kind, nothing regarding cracked heads at all. <br />While you might give Merc customer service a call, don't expect any help. With no reports of cracked heads on file and an engine that is 2 and a half years out of warranty, I doubt they will do anything.

 

[kopy kat]

Re: will Mercruiser replace an engine?

Don S--thanks for the check.. I find it strange that there's no information logged in, as M. did reimburse for the first set of heads, and they were 5 months out of warranty--also, on the second set, the srvice tech claims he called the factory (or some one) to discuss this problem, since it was the second time it happened.<br /><br />I really am figuring on paying the bill again, but my fear is that I'll be looking at a 4th set of heads if we can't find an answer this time around. That's why I wish the whole darn thing could be swapped out. Larry