My engines have always run hot (180+) so I'm now replacing the exhaust elbows.
(Since I bought the boat, I assume they ran normal when new).
They never overheated (alarm) until last weekend. I had planned to do new elbows this winter, but the engine couldn't hold out another 8 weeks...

I have 2001 engines with the 'wet' joints.

If I just buy the 2002+ exhaust manifolds and elbows, they appear they should bolt right up, and give me the improved design, for parts I'm thinking of replacing anyway... anyone else done this?

MERCRUISER EXHAUST MANIFOLDS RISERS/ELBOWS V8 865735A02 864309T02

Do not buy OE Merc small block wet joint right now. The manifolds are cast wrong. They made the blueprint and cad change, waiting for their plant in Mexico to make the new batch of castings. Expected wait is now end of December or so.

I'll find the thread I started and link to it when I do.

Here: Anybody have an 'in' with someone within Mercruiser parts over a manufacturing issue?

BTW: Yes I have been in direct talks/conversations with Merc about this for a while now. I'll let people here know when this problem is finally resolved.

Wow, thank you. I actually bought Barr ones for port, but am thinking of attempting a dry join conversion over the winter.