1st post TOTAL newb, OMC 4.3 Q's...

[CuddyinTN]

I have an OMC 4.3 with the usual cracked block, I am planning on buying a late 80's s10 motor, doing necc. maintenance and swapping my mani's, fuel, and elec. system. One thing is i have no heads. I was wondering if i can use standard 4.3 heads b/c they seem to be a bit cheaper...Sorry if any of this is stupid! Thanks Justin

[CuddyinTN]

Come on guys, casting number on back of block is 14099090, from what I have gathered that is the 96-98 4.3? Is this correct? Thanks

[Tahoerover]

Quality marine heads will have one piece stainless valves, dual springs and spring rotators. Typical off the shelf automotive heads will not. Will they work ,yes, They will live a short life in a boat.

[7228sedan]

Cuddy, Not sure if you have done anything yet, but the Mercruiser 4.3 2 barrel motors in my father's boat were off the shelf GM Vortec 4.3 Long block's. The carb, ignition accessories etc are proprietary to Merc, but the long block is what you'll want to swap out. If you can get a Vortec 4.3 that'd be your best bet as they'll have the stainless valves and be more or less a replacement marine long block. FYI Vortec 4.3's started in 1988. Good Luck!