1972 43' DC - engine removal and rebuild

[JPBuffalo]

Ok .. I am at the point where I am looking at an engine rebuild for my starboard 427. The Water on the plugs / in the cylinders (7 of 8) problem has my pistons not moving freely. Does not appear to be rust in the cylinders (I have lubed the heck out of it). Turning the regulator with a breaker bar takes "a lot of shoulder" with the plugs out and starter disconnected. Am told it is likely a bad bearing and lower end will need work.

Any suggestions on getting the engine out without the use of a chain saw?

As for the water on the plugs - it is not the intake manifold - tested and good.

Exhaust manifolds are next - but that won't solve the stiff/tight piston movement.

Any thoughts are greatly appreciated! Prayers too.

Possible to do a rebuild without removing?

 

[Boatsb]

That's a small engine to move in and out. If you strip it of the manifolds it will probably for through the door intact.


As for rebuilding it in there anything's possible but may not be practical.

 

[rob71]

Definitely strip it down. Even heads and intake along with the exhaust. An impact wrench (electric or air) will make it a quick job. You can span doubled up 2x6s from side deck to side deck thru the Windows. Then a come-a-long to lift it into the salon. Several options to get it out the door or window then.
Capt. Rob

 

[smoothmove]

It will go out the door easy peasy if you have removed the heads. i got one through my 38's door and your door is wider.

I wrote and posted a document around here somewhere that might be helpful. Same engine as yours. I'll see if I can find it.

Eric

 

[UNIQUE_NAME]

It will go out the door easy peasy if you have removed the heads. i got one through my 38's door and your door is wider.

I wrote and posted a document around here somewhere that might be helpful. Same engine as yours. I'll see if I can find it.

Eric

yes, piece by piece it will fit out the door. the problem is you really want the rebuild assembled and run BEFORE it goes back in the boat. once assembled, the door isn't an option. plus, you really don't want to break it down, among other things it may void any warranty the rebuilder gives you. the hole in the roof was the only option on getting it back in in one piece. honestly, it wasn't as bad as it sounds. the headliner was relatively easy to take down and the scar on the bridge is under the rug so the glass work doesn't have to be perfect. you probably have a paragon bolted to the 427, so have that rebuilt while its out too. one more thing, the 427's are quirky beasts. make sure the person doing the rebuild is accustomed to working on them. eric can replay his horror story as a warning.

 

[JPBuffalo]

Re: 1972 43' DC - engine removal and rebuild -- Good News

Would you ever believe a blown head gasket is good news!! Well .. no lower end rebuild, no spun bearing, no bent connecting rod or shaft. Rusty cylinders (full of water) and a blown head gasket. Now, before I get over excited at the possibility of salvaging some of my boating season .. what am I missing?

I had the intake manifold checked, cleaned and refinished, I am having the same done with the head and the exhaust manifold and will be checking the risers.

God willing, she will be purring like her sister in a week or 2!!