Hi,
I need the collective's expertise here, been using my CVZ-18 and enjoying it with the family.
The sbc 350 4 bolt main block, rods, oil pump, and pistons are what remained of the engine it came with that was a fairly fresh rebuild. But it had been poorly stored, and if long blocks weren't so expensive (and such a roll of the dice), I would have retired it.
The decks had some pitting, and there was some borderline scoring in cylinders otherwise have fresh cross-hatching. Compression was very good, so I ordered new everything else, including rings, bought some used heads, and went for it.
Just when I thought I was winning, it developed more of a pinging sound than a knock, and after pulling the valve covers and the sparkplugs, I could recreate the sound while turning with a ratchet.
SOooo, I need at least a new rebuilt short block, but a long block, or fresh but used motor are all possible. What it has in it now, with all of the Mercruiser 898 external parts, is a casting number 14010207 80-85 4 bolt main
(Truly) in stock short blocks are hard to find, long blocks are easier, but which blocks/heads will take all of the engine accessories I have now?
I don't want another project, I want it back in the water, but don't mind mixing it up if there is a solution and I know what to do.
Now that we are going that way, what about a Vortec long block?
I know I will need a new manifold, and I believe my center rise exhaust manifolds will fit, but what about distributor, front motor accessories (power steering, alternator)? Motor mounts? All of the Mercruiser stuff that hangs on the back of the motor?
