when does one consider doing a top end job

[kimosammy]

I have a 1998 Carver Mariner 350 withtwo Crusader TBI fuel injected 454’s.
The motors have a little over 1400hrs on them.
I’m mechanically inclined, not a professional but in my experienced opinionthey run fine to me.
Over the course of my 14 day San Juan trip I placed 40hrs on the motors. The40hrs were a combination of doing 9mph to 26mph.
the starboard motor used a quart of oil while the port used about 4oz.
They don’t smoke

Question is, when does one consider doing a top end job or is it needed orshould I wait until something really stands out to fix?

 

[makomark]

The short answer is when it is needed...

The best way to make that call is to do a leakdown test...If there's any 'excess wear' it will let you know where and to what extent....you can then do the cost benefit trade.

Finally, when I worked at a shop, the 'rule of thumb' was the heads were likely due for an overhaul @ 1000 hours of 'normal use'....that said, my big blocks delivered over 3000 hours before the overhaul was done...

 

[johnnygjr]

No smoke,and still maintaining top rpms,wot your doing just fine. keep on boating"trucking"

 

[rfdlou]

You are at the crossroads. She's running well. But, she is 18 years old & racking up the hours. Soft parts seals ect.are going to leak a little bit. Do you sell /trade her now or keep her & start putting away $$ for overhaul/replace that's down the road. Enjoy the boat. But, start looking at options.

 

[sandkicker]

If engines have oil coolers, check for leak. Usually a slight sheen on the exhaust water plume.