On Thu, 16 Sep 2004 18:36:56 -0400, "sel1" wrote:

I'm new to boating ....

Looking ahead (hopefuly later rather than sooner) I would like some options
on re-powering a 40' houseboat. Two options I can think of a

1/ rebuild the existing 318's and use different transfer (transmissions?)
and drives. Drives are Dana which are obsolete and parts are expensive! Are
there any Chrysler 318 owners who have done or even researched this?

Just a quick Google will show you that the best option is to change
the inboards (long blocks should suffice) and trannys'. Jasper
Engines can give you a fast quote that will surprise you.

2/ convert to outboards. What sort of reinforcing would need to be done to
the transom, hull, both? What else would I have to consider? Considering
houseboats can be like a sail, what size would I need. The 318's are 220HP
ea. What would a o/b for this application cost (cdn please).

This is not a good idea in any case. Outboards are a whole different
animal and to do it correctly will cost more than it's worth.

Anyone have any other options/ideas (this should be good) or has any
experience with either of these projects?

The houseboat is a 40' 69 thunderbird drift-r-cruiser.

No clue, but it would seem to me that even with a shallow draft,
outboards aren't your best selection for this project.

Overall, you have to figure what the boat will net even with new
engines and transmissions. You will never recoup the entire cost if
you decide to sell the boat, but the investment recovery ratio will be
much better with inboards.

Stick with upgrading the inboards.

Later,

Tom