Well, since I will be tearing the boat apart this offseason to have the the transom rebuilt, I'm gonna build new engines. I plan on building brand new 400 small blocks and selling the stock 350 mags minus belt drive and plumbing. Engines will be 100% brand new minus the IMCO exhaust. Who here has done complete swaps in a 292? Any tips or advice? Any input is appreciated!

I do eventually but simply cant afford to spend the extra 40-50k on a bigger boat with all of my other hobbies.

What heads, induction, compression, exhaust specifics, and max rpm you are comfortable running.

I've always wanted to see someone utilize the SBC/LS hybrid blocks in a 292. Basically all sbc bottom end with LS cylinder heads and induction, they are such an effecient chamber. I know you aren't going this way but every time I see those blocks I think "Man wouldn't those be awesome in a 292!"

https://www.mercruiserparts.com/383-mag-stroker-mpi

I was looking at AFR heads with 195 intake runners, comp XM276HR cam, edelbrock performer rpm intakes with quick fuel 850 double pumpers, 9:1 compression to be on the safe side, imco powerflow exhaust, and 6000 rpm would be max.

I'm going through this now myself. Long story short, head rotted out, water on top of cylinder, bent a rod, replacing both engines.

Had under 300 hours on them but time and corrosion just caught up to me. I looked at going with 377 Stoker long blocks but the added cost of getting those blocks along with having to reflash the computers just didn't seem economical or fit the budget. Ended up just replacing exactly what I had in there with new, not remanufactured, GM marine 350 long blocks. Swapped everything else over from the other motor. Also added full closed cooling, so hopefully no more corrosion. Upgraded exhaust to Hardin Seaward manifolds with stainless risers. Got 17 years out of the engines boat came with, this setup should last just as long if not longer.

Dang! Keep us posted. I have a 292 with 350s as well!