Engine install - easy DIY?
 

So I am about to install my engine into the boat in a few weeks and I have never done an engine install on a boat or even worked on boats but am pretty good in the shop. What do you guys suggest for a first timer? Take it in and have it done or I did see someone on here talking about these http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mercruiser-A...-/281041383187 and it really does not look very hard. I also have a real shop manual as well. If I do it myself anything to look out for or any tips or tricks? I have access to a large gantry crane as well.
thanks
Scott

Getting the engine alignment right is probably the most critical part of the job.

It's so easy. As long as you have the facility to do it in. Dont sweat it. You'll be surprised after you do it that you'll wonder why you even questioned yourself. I pulled two out of a 12 meter over the weekend and took exactly 2 hours but that's going in the bilge with all the right tools. Install will take a little longer just to make sure plumbing and wiring are 100%. I just use our shop with over head ibeam and chainfall. Typically always by myself. Single engine is that much easier having the extra space. Really difficult to screw anything up unless you raised the drive or did transom work that would require engine height change. Even then drop the two rear bolts in and lower slowly until drive shaft fits. Alignment tool is nice but a decent set of eyes and little patients goes a long way.

I should have asked first but is it simply just a reinstall. If so no worries.

Thanks Getrdunn, I have looked through the manual and it does not seem hard but I always like to ask questions first. From what the guy said I bought the boat from they just removed the outdrive and engine about 12 years ago and has been sitting. The engine mounts have not been touched or adjusted. Thanks for the replies

As Getrdunn said, no problem for you since you have mechanical background. Its all common sense. The first one I did I couldn't believe I stressed out so much about it, the engine is nearly 100% dressed going in and out. I also thought removing a bravo drive was a big deal 'til I actually did it and then figured out why so many drives get stolen, it's too easy. I learned on our old 95 Baja 272, best thing I ever did to get familiar with boats.
Don't know if this is a new engine build but no better time than now to put a new starter, alternator, water pump/s and other hard to reach items BEFORE putting the engine back in. Know that one from experience.

I don't blame you for asking cause I remember my first boat and engine R&R. Even though I was a gear head and wrench when it came to cars, xcross bikes, go carts, etc I still looked at the boat like wtf. Like it was something that only the marinas service departments would do. Nah. It was overly simple. Also remember to get all the wiring harness on and drop in as a whole. Really very little to do once engine is in place. Maybe hook your starter wire up when your lowering in case it's difficult to get to once in place. Just could save you some time. Maybe yours is easy to get to. Just a heads up though. Also remember your ground strap. If you run into any issues just post and someone will chime in and help you through it. Look for any old marks on mounts and us common sense and you'll be good to go.

[QUOTE=Don't know if this is a new engine build but no better time than now to put a new starter, alternator, water pump/s and other hard to reach items BEFORE putting the engine back in. Know that one from experience.[/QUOTE]

Oh yes, brand new PerTronix marine starter, 140 amp marine alternator with 6 gauge wiring kit, all new coolant hoses, and new raw water pump. Have been debating on replacing the oil lines with the hydraulic fittings to the cooler and engine. Any experience on age with these? This is a 1990 boat and I guarantee these are the original hoses. I also redid all of the fuel lines with new marine grade line.

Pretty good here^^^. Make sure you have a decent place to do it with the right equipment. Maybe the best thing about R&R a motor is that it will really give you confidence and comfort to tackle almost anything mechanical on your boat....you will really easily learn how everything works. Since I first did it, my boat has never gone back to a marina for maintenance or repairs. I would spend the few bucks for the alignment tool. If the motor is not going right back in, buy an engine cradle and/or engine stand. First time will take some time, but nothing is really too difficult.

Whoya is actually an OSO member. I have done business with him in the past and would hesitate for a second to do business with him again.

As for the rest, dont rush anything or force anything. Make shure you have the fiber washers and spring locks in the right place/order and it helps to tape the nuts to the inner shield. When something doesnt fit, take a break, have a beer....