auto engine replacement for blown 455?

[erinj]

I've got a boat with a blown 455 olds. I'm wondering what my least expensive option would be for replacing the engine. Would an automotive engine bolt up? Anyone have any ideas or know how I can find out which engines will be compatible with the existing adapter and berkeley jet drive? Thanks

[Thunderhead19]

The block (despite what others may say) is identical to a stock auto block. Your job would be to strip down the boat motor including the cam and install the old components on a new short block. Just out of curiosity, by "blown" you mean what? What happened? threw a rod? seized? destroyed the #1 main?

[erinj]

Thunderhead,

What automotive engine could I use as a replacement? Does it depend on the existing specific adapter and jet drive?


It threw two rods and engine filled with water.

Thanks, erinj

[Thunderhead19]

I think you may be able to go with any GM big block V-8, but I'm not 100% sure. Couldn't you find a 455 replacement? Most reduction gears and or drive units will fit a selection of different motors. I think you may find that one adaptor fits all GM big blocks, one adaptor fits all Ford small blocks etc...Can't say 100% for sure though.

[FAST FRED]

BOP, Buick Olds Pontiac , will usually swop and the belhousings will fit.Chevvy is different

Just get another Olds 455 and swop as recomended.

When GM built motorhomes in the 60 & 70'd the Olds 455 was THEIR choice for the most robust engine in the lineup .

If GM thought it was the best they had , and you have all the boat conversion goodies , a rebuilt Olds seems like a no brainer.

If you want a cheap huge engine the 500cid Caddys from the 70 are as big as you can get and are cheap .

FAST FRED

[erinj]

Fred, I didn't check in for awhile and just saw your reply. Thank you for the iformation. I appreciate that you and the others have offered to share you knowledge on the subject. I'm sure I'll be posting more questions about this subject. Thanks again, erinj