Engine Replacement

[Moonglow]

What should I consider when a seemingly excellent and experienced mechanic, but one I've no history with, tells me my engine needs to be replaced? I have twin Mercruiser 350s, so old i don't know how old. Bought my 1966 Chris Craft Commander a year ago. One engine had been smoking, then a few days ago overheated and crapped out. Now I'm at a marina that seems excellent but I don't know them but for the weekend spent here in Point Breeze, NY. My home port is Toronto. What to do?

[glenn.225]

Well I guess you need an engine, a long block (don't go for short block) 350 is about the least expensive marine engine you will find. As long as all the ancillery parts are still good its just bolting everything on.

[ranger58sb]

Originally Posted by Moonglow

What should I consider when a seemingly excellent and experienced mechanic, but one I've no history with, tells me my engine needs to be replaced? I have twin Mercruiser 350s, so old i don't know how old. Bought my 1966 Chris Craft Commander a year ago. One engine had been smoking, then a few days ago overheated and crapped out. Now I'm at a marina that seems excellent but I don't know them but for the weekend spent here in Point Breeze, NY. My home port is Toronto. What to do?

Can you ask the mechanic for references? And then check 'em.?

Can you ask other slipholders there for their impressions of the mechanic/shop?

FWIW, if that engine is original, I'd guess you got your money's worth... especially if it's raw water cooled and/or risers haven't been replaced periodically over the decades...

If it were me, intending to keep and use the boat but also not intending to use it enough to benefit from a diesel conversion... I suspect I'd take the opportunity to replace both old engines with new (or maybe re-man) Crusaders. And while the engines are out, I think I'd rehab the engine room, completely clean all that out, inspect (and repair/replace, if necessary) anything else in there that's easier to get to when the engines aren't in the way (fuel tanks? water tanks? generator?), maybe fresh paint (easier to spot leaks afterwards), and so forth.

All that assumes the boat is worth the investment, and that you have the time and an appropriate budget, of course...

-Chris

[Moonglow]

Well thanks very much for your replies. Really helpful. I'm taking your advice and will let you know how it works out.

mjb

[sabray]

You get bids for rebuild and replacement from 3 different outfits. Then you weigh the options.,