EdMel wrote:
Hello all,
Im new and I need help on a project. I traded my jetskis for a Fout Winns 170. It has a 2.3L Cobra OMC. The motor has lost compression in 2 cylinders. Im going to pull the head off tomorrow. The engine is completely locked.
My question is: Is it worth buying a new Ford shortblock and dropping a good head on it?
If not, how easy is it to convert to a Mercruiser or GM or Volvo engine? Would this include all the wiring and controls? I saw kits to convert the outdrives for a motor swap.
Basically I am trying to decide whether to stay with the original equipment or go for another motor set up.
Thanks
EdMel
If the motor is locked up, how were you able to determine that two cyl's had lost compression? With either problem, locked up or lost compression, a new head won't fix it; even if valves are the reason, chances are if valves broke of they damage pistons as well.
I would take the head off and see if you can clean out the cyl's, put some marvel mystery oil in them, let them soak and eventually try turning the engine over with a breaker bar. Gently. I bet you've got broken piston rings, at least.
You can swap over but, nothing wrong with the OMC set up as long as it is maintained.