Switching a Volvo Penta out for a Mercruiser

[Boathog]

Is this possible? Would I want to? This is my situation. I recently bought a 2000 Four Winns 254 Deckboat. It was a repossession and devoid of motor and outdrive, but still has the transom and gimbal housing. I can tell that Mercruiser's are less expensive and more prevalent. Volvo Penta are a tougher find and the outdrives can be as expensive as the motors. I'm looking to get a wrecked/salvage boat or one in rough shape with a solid recently replaced motor. My question is if I find a boat with mercruiser motor and outdrive, transom and gimbal housing, will the hole cut through my hull fit this repower or will that require major fiberglass work? If anyone has suggestions or advice it would be very well received. If anyone has a 5.7 volvo penta and outdrive that would fit a 2000 254 Four Winns, I'd be interested in what you are asking for it. Thanks in advance for any replies.

 

[PCUK]

There's a Volvo 290 on boats and outboards that is up for £1600 and looks to be a good buy. I think he'd take an offer.
No, it's not mine!!!

 

[volvopaul]

You can buy a re power pack from any mercruiser dealer, if your wanting to go down the secondhand route I may be able to supply and engine, drive and all the other bits.

 

[dingdongs]

here you go for starters;http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/VOLVO-PENTA-5...at_Engines_EngineParts_SM&hash=item3367aa627a

 

[Elessar]

You can buy a re power pack from any mercruiser dealer, if your wanting to go down the secondhand route I may be able to supply and engine, drive and all the other bits.

Paul I thought the Mercruiser transom hole was smaller?

 

[spannerman]

The hole is narrower but you can buy an adapter plate which fits the original bolt holes and has the new bolt holes for the Mercruiser, literally plug and play.