Converting an automotive carb to a marine carb

I am looking at replacing my carb because its been giving me nothing but problems even rebuilt. The lowest price I could find on a marine 4160 holley was over 450. I have a chance to get a new automotive 4160 for free, and I was wondering if it would be possible to get the parts and build a marine carb. If I was to do this, what all would have to change? Ill get a marine carb kit, and some J tubes, but what will I have to do internally? My holley book mentioned a few of the differences, but i couldnt find any real details. Thank you
Lightfoot

Since this is my first post on the forum I hope this helps someone. Check with Summit Racing, www.summitracing.com, they stock the marine carbs for less than that. Also they stock Eldebrock marine carbs (re-popped Carters) for less than the Holleys but some mods to your linkage and fuel lines may be required to go that route.

Mr. Mike.

Alright, thanks for the heads up on the differences.
My boat was run in salt water, and really was not well cared for. I have been through everything on it, stripped it down completely and started over, rebuilt the engine, and cleaned it all up. I just cant seem to work out all the little problems. I rebuilt the carb, however the other day, I got to the ramp, and gas was pouring past the primary needle and the engine kept stalling because of it. I drove away from the ramp, went to the parking lot to fix the problem, and it had fixed itself. I put the boat in the water, got it running, and went about 200 yds. When turning moderatly to agressively, the boat would slowly loose significant power, and not really want to recover when straightened out. If I turned for too long, it would eventually stall. The choke horn on the carb has some pitting and junk on it, the accelerator pump screws were destroyed, and the pump arm was bent. The throttles move freely, but not as easily as I would like. I can not get the screws out of the plates without braking them, so I have not cleaned them. My guess is that the secondaries arent opening under load. I may be able to nurse this carb along, But im thinking it might just need to be replaced. Really i dont trust anything the PO touched on this boat. If anyone has a different theory on the loss of power Id be very interested.
Thank you
Lightfoot

Rebuilt marine 4160s can be had in the $200-$300 range. I bought my rebuilt carb for $225 plus $75 core charge.

My core is in decent enough shape it could be rebuilt by someone with the time and motivation to do so. I'd be willing to let it go for the core charge I paid plus shipping.

If you're interested, send me an email at amabes at gmcf dot org.

Jody I wouldn't mind having a core 4160 Marine. Is it 450 CFM? Does it come rebuilt or just the kit?

That is of course if Lightfoot doesn't want it.

For what it's worth, I once asked a Holley tech that same question and he told me to put the J tubes in the automotive carb and not worry about it.

Get your list numbers all together and call Holley tech support, 270 781-9741. In years past they were very helpful to me.

When I went to a 4bbl carb Jody, I had a choice of 2 used ones. Called Holley and by the list # they could tell what engine they were originally for. I don't know if they could still do that but it would be worth a call.

Another slightly less expensive option is the Quick Fuel M-600 marine carb.  Under $780.  Should bolt right up to replace a 4160.