4.3 Volvo Problem

[cpayne3]

My 4.3 is seized and also has a starter bolt hole problem that I do not believe could be fixed properly. I do not want to start the old arguement of Auto versus marine engines but funds are short and I need some advice. Since I would not be starting from scratch considering I already have most of the necessary marine based components off of my seized 4.3 - I am considering a auto 4.3

I can purchase a 4.3 from a local parts yard for $1,000 with only 11K miles on it. Best I can figure is to swap my marine camshaft into it. A set of good head gaskets, brass plugs and my intake manifold. I already have the starter, carb, alternator etc. from my seized motor. My exhaust manifolds and risers are no good and will need replacing.

Thoughts and suggestions?

[CDK]

My advice is to buy the $1,000 engine, fit the parts from your old engine that are still serviceable and get the parts that aren't from ebay.
With the standard camshaft you have marginally less power but the same torque. Taking the cylinder head off an engine is something like heart surgery: do it only if there is no alternative.
If you worry about the head gasket, install a heat exchanger cooling system, you avoid thermostat problems and it lowers your gas bill considerably.