Using a Mercruiser GM 350?

[Turtlez06]

So I have access to a free Mercruiser GM 350. My Blazer does not have a motor. Would this work ok? I realize marine engines have a few differences. But for the most part they are stronger and have better parts. Maybe a cam swap and be good to go? I know in reverse putting a truck motor in a boat is no good. Thanks for everyones input.

 

[dhcomp]

Curious to this answer. But if i remember correctly, the marine version may be reverse rotation.

 

[4X4HIGH]

The engine will work as long as it isn't a reverse rotation engine (most marine engines are standard rotation unless it is a twin engine then one could be a reverse rotation).

 

[dhcomp]

Curious, how to you tell the difference? if you aren't aware of its history.

 

[4X4HIGH]

The cam is reverse ground OR it uses a 2 gear cam drive,

 

[Turtlez06]

I know it is from a single engine boat. It has a holly carb, and an edelbrock intake. I know boats need torque more than horsepower. So I figured a cam swap would be a good idea. I forgot to mention this is goin into a 77' Blazer in CA. So I would have to have smog junk on it.

 

[Fordum]

Might check an see if it was run on salt or fresh water. If salt, if it was a raw water engine.
Might have some corrosion issues in the cooling passages if they ran it raw water in salt and did not keep up the zincs.

 

[ryoken]

reverse rotation motors are pretty hard to find these days.... haven't been in production for quite a few years... and as Scott mentioned, it's a different grind bumpstick and a dual gear..

as fordum mentioned, the most critical factor is usually if it was raw or fresh cooled.... MOST smaller I/O boats are raw cooled, just be aware of that... lake boat, not a big deal usually, saltwaters can get hammered pretty quick...

ANY question, just PM me, there's VERY little I don't know about Mercruiser stuff...

 

[Turtlez06]

Thanks for the replies, I guess I best go grab it. Appears good on the outside. And hey free is free. Thanks again for all the inputs.

 

[USSkoval]

And hey free is free.

Your own advice is the best