It's pretty simple, and doesn't take long, PROVIDED the bolt heads aren't rusted off. If you get in over your head, then take it down to be worked on.

I agree, it says that engine is great for 4x4. Doesn't sound like it's a marine engine. I want an engine for marine use. Does "crate" engine mean it's for vehicles only or are there marine "crate" engines?

This ad is a little old, but I'd check to see if these were still available.
http://www.donzi.net/forums/showthread.php?t=40734

[QUOTE=GOODT]untill the salt water eats out your head gaskets (2nd or 3rd time out)

You speak the truth, I was told the HT 383 has .051 S/S head gaskets. There is a raw cooled one out by me that ran all last year a lot more then 2-3 times, I will check with him and call Sallee Chevy to get the real scoop on that. I do not and would not run raw cooling on a good engine especially one with some fair $$$ in it, I know many do.

Phil

Another post that may shed some light.

http://www.donzi.net/forums/showthre...ghlight=ht+383

I don't want to get too crazy. I was planning on selling the boat after the season anyway (got my eye on a 336) so I'm not going to do much/spend big money. I just want to get it running again (right) or buy a solid 350 engine so when I sell it I'm not screwing anybody. If I can't figure out the problem is something simple like intake or exhaust manifold gaskets, I'll probably buy the new motor you guys told me about for $3500 + shipping. Sounds reliable, with warranty and an added 50hp. Hopefully I'll know more this week. Gotta love big wrenching in 105 degrees

Sleek1- I bought two of those engines last year. They run great, the only issue I had was the the power valves, and main jets in the carbs. The are shipped with 2.5pv, and I think 60 mains. I have GLM manifolds and Imco risers, so I was lean. I changed them to 6.5 and 64 Mains and they are now happy.

There are several marine engine reman companies that offer a 2 year warranty standard, and very reasonable pricing for stock power. I used several of these without issue. This would give you an additional selling feature, if you decide to sell at the end of this season. I can't stress enough, find the problem that is causing the water ingestion.

Hi are you Jims buddy, from what i have been able to gleen the motors are just fine for marine. A little more cam helps but the old Scorpion cams are are decent enough for most. I spoke to my local bud he has almost 100 hours of kick as running and is happy but very interested in going to your cam, seems we always need a little more snot to keep us happy.

Phil

Well everyone, it appears the engine is now siezed. Throwing my hands in the air. Talked to a reputable (from what I hear) mechanic. 3-4K rebuild the merc 5.7 ready to run. A lot cheaper than the 6k I was quoted by the mobile mechanic! The down side is he can't even look at the boat unitl June 22! Plus however long it will take to fix. Looks like I'll be mooching off some friends for a good part of the summer. Good thing is, my buddy just bought a 37 Sundancer. I know he'll need someone to help with those lines. Thank you all for your help. It's good to know there are people like you willing to take the time