Logo
FULL SITE MENU

What heads can I use

U

unixdood

Member
"Hi All,
I have a Merc 4.3

"Hi All,
I have a Merc 4.3LX from an 1988 Searay 205. The head is cracked. Couple of things if I may...
1) I thought the 4.3LX was a 4bbl but mine is ony a 2bbl. ???
2) Can I use heads from a 4.3L or does it have to be an LX?
3) How can I tell if I have a Vortec or not?

Thank you all so much!"
 
"Are you the first owner ? may

"Are you the first owner ? maybe the PO downgraded. ( i thought so too.. can't remember.)

2.. Only Matters if Vortec and Non-Vortec

3. If the 2 center bolts by the carb point straight down, they are Vortec Heads.."
 
The "LX" was a designa

The "LX" was a designation for a 4bbl carb so you are correct.

That is the ONLY difference between and LX and a Non LX of the same year/type engine.

As Brian said the other difference is Vortec or not.
 
thank you but how can i tell i

thank you but how can i tell if its a vortec or not? Will it say on the block somewhere? Is there any identifying features that will stand out?
 
"See brians post

""

"See brians post

""3. If the 2 center bolts by the carb point straight down, they are Vortec Heads.."""

in other words the center bolts ( 2 per side) that go thru the manifold on each side of the carb, if they are on a angle they are standard. if they go in straight (vertical) then they are vortec."
 
"Can i use Truck heads? Actua

"Can i use Truck heads? Actually, can i replace my 4.3lx with say a chevy 4.3 Liter truck engine? if so, what should I change on it? Gaskets? Will my Alpha One bolt right up to it?

Thanks"
 
"Head gaskets to marine, intak

"Head gaskets to marine, intake and carb from original engine with standard intake gaskets, exhaust manifolds from original and any exhaust gaskets. All additional parts from original including oil pump and oil pan. if there is a (windage tray) sheet metal pan attached to the crank mains you should remove from old with main bolts and install on new.

all drain plugs, auto has allen head metal. marine has brass.

As long as the truck motor is the same (votec vs nonvotec) direct swap.

Maybe more but too much list"
 
Back
Top