I have a line on a 8.1 Vortec truck engine for REALLY cheap. I'm looking at it to upgrade my power, but am at a complete loss as to what I need to do as far as marinizing it. I have it on really good authority that I need a top end rebuild with extreme duty valves and springs, but I'm kinda at a loss from there. I have a 7.4 LX with upgraded Merc 496 exhaust and a Bravo 1, so at least I don't have to worry about headers, and the B1 will handle the HP if I keep it relatively stock. I know I probably need a computer unless I can get mine flashed...Any help and a possible ballpark $ amount would be very helpful. thanks!!

What hp are you gunning for? If "stock" suits you then you don't have to do too much.

Brass freeze plugs, a marine waterpump (reverse flow), marine electricals and ignition, marine fuel pump and marine carb on a decent medium rise dual plane intake. If you plan to boat in ANY salt, then you need marine (stainless steel) headgaskets as well.

Cam, valves, springs... it really depends on what condition/miles it's got, and how you plan to run it. If you have to swap the headgaskets, it never hurts to freshen the valveseats and put in fresh springs to suit whatever cam you plan to run. Car valvesprings are on the weak side for continuous 5000 rpm usage, and over 100k miles they are starting to fatigue (even though today's trucks run tall overdrives to keep the revs down and make parts last).

MC.

I've got a Merc 496 Throttle body that will bolt up to your intake. $50 plus the ride and its yours. I'm pretty sure your ignition is fine.

I have a cam from a 496 Mag ,if you need it pm me.