repower a 1977 240WE with a Diesel?

[bobnlee2007]

Has anyone swapped out a 351W stringer motor I/O for a Diesel plant? If so, what was required?
Would it be possible to keep the old OMC electric I/O?
I imagine a whole power plant I/O would be required as a swap.
The gasoline issue for older engines is getting to be real hassle now. I don't think
a OMC/Ford 351W could handle 95% ethanol. I haven't seen any really good lab data
on running the 15% in the 351W and it's effects on the engine.
I'm putting several additives in now like Stabil and Starbrite. Haven't tried the
ValvTec yet.
I really like the older hull shape of the 1977 240WE and am considering going to a diesel
instead of a brand new boat. The new diesels are a lot smaller than the gas plants now and
seem to offer more HP per pound.

 

[fwebster]

I think the only workable and dependable way to to this is a complete repower with a new engine, drive, transom assy, and controls. When you price a Yanmar or Cummins/Mercruiser diesel repower you might make you check new boat prices.

 

[tobnpr]

Bracket and outboard would be a sweet setup on that boat.

 

[KRB64]

I'd love a Cummins/Merc setup. Having ethanol issues here even with Stabil and Startron.

Other than price you'd have the weight issue. The diesels going to be a bit heavier probably, unless you use maybe a 4-banger?

 

[bobnlee2007]

I've considered an outboard setup and have looked at several conversion types that bolt on a large stainless steel platform that you can mount 1 or 2 outboards on. The prices for a 150 - 225 HP outboard motor would cost more than getting a nice used boat. I even had the opportunity to buy a OMC SeaDrive setup. I am now getting out of the project boat mindset and I want to start using my boat as a recreational resource now. I really got a kick out of towing my grandkids around the lake on tubes. The smiles were worth a million$.