chocolate milk

I am the owner who posted the "Frozen" topic a couple weeks ago.

Picked up an 85 that had been sitting. The previous owner said that he had winterized the boat last year and never used it this year. He had the manifolds off to be replaced. Motor was stuck. Finally got it loose with some PB Blaster.

The guy could not have been honest (what a surprise). He had a standard rotation starter on it. Compression was 70 to 90, with one at 130. Put fog oil in the cylinders, new manifolds and risers on. Borrowed the starter and carb from my 80. Got it started and it sounded good for a while. Started to bog after a while.

Check the dipstick and found a milkshake.

I am not really sure what to check to see if it is head versus block. Trying to decide if I keep digging or just start looking for a long block or used motor, etc.

Thanks guys,
Brent

I am weighing my engine replacement options and wanted to see if I could get some opinions. Thanks in advance.

As I see it, here are my options:

1 - Get a long block. Either swap it out myself or pay someone to do it. Although I think it would be fun, I doubt that I have the time or expertise needed to do it myself.

2 - Look for a used engine. Keep looking for a bad stringer and floor situation. An ebay listing (already ended) for an Indmar 351 with manifolds, starter, carb, etc. It only needed the raw water pump. Went for just under $1000, but without any warranty, could easily find myself right where I am now and still have to get it swapped out in my boat.

3 - Drop the boat off at a qualified machine shop and have them completely rebuild the existing. Have called a couple places here in the Tampa area. This one has a two year warranty, $2800 for everything, including
pulling and reinstalling.

http://www.bayareamotorworks.com/


Since I have new manifolds and risers and put electronic ignition from SKIDIM in my current, I am leaning towards the third option. The boat will have more $ in then I anticipated, but with brand new floors, interior, dash, etc. (and motor now) should be good for a while.

Last question. Can I expect a well taken care of, rebuilt motor to last a long time?

Thanks!!!!!!!

I could get it whenever. I would probably need to find someone around here (Tampa) that could swap it in for me. I just don't see myself having the time. I have flexibility with another boat in the water, so best value and quality of work is more important then timing.

I live on the north side of Tampa and have the boat sitting on the side of my house. Could put it in the garage, on the driveway, or leave in the yard. I do not have a cherrypicker or hoist, but would think they are rentable.

Give me a call 813-493-0300.

What would you charge?

Thanks!!

79nautique,

Just wanted to check in and see if you had to go north?

Thanks