Complete re-power of '77 SRV220

[roemere]

Due to freeze damage, I may end up completely replacing my Mercruiser 888---if I can afford it.

What are my options for replacing this engine and/or outdrive?

Currently has Mercruiser 888 with Pre-Alpha stern drive. What is biggest engine that will fit? Due to age, should I go ahead and upgrade stern drive too?

What are suggestions for engine/sterndrive upgrade combination? If this were your boat, what upgrade would you do?

Preference would be for more power/top-end speed....balanced with $$$

 

[vandal]

Get a newer boat you will never get your money back engine and drive from merc $10,000. Other option look on michigan motors have very good prices.

 

[Ten Years Gone]

edit

 

[Saverio]

I agree with Ten year gone

for the money your looking to spend on a used drive and motor and labor. you can find a running boat in the water.

 

[OnTheReel]

Find a used 350 Merc engine, obviously complete with manifolds, coupler, flywheel cover, etc., and go boating. Your current drive has the right gear ratio for the V8 Chevy so keep it if you want to save some cash. Check craigslist, buy a whole boat with the motor you want if it's cheap enough and shred the rest. If you go that route, look at 1984+ and swap the newer transom assembly and drive over too.

Even cheaper option if you just want to go boating!! Find a 302 truck engine from the right era, swap the steel freeze plugs, put on your marine accessories from the cracked block and go. Truck cam is close enough to marine, the automotive head gaskets will hold up fine in freshwater. Just a thought. You could do it for less than $1000 bucks and a lot less work.


Where are you in Illinois? I have a nice gantry for pulling engines that you can use if you're close.