On Monday, November 26, 2012 9:13:53 AM UTC-5, Wayne. B wrote:
On Sun, 25 Nov 2012 10:30:00 -0600, "James" wrote: Hi, I have a boat engine question. I'm looking at a 30' Bayliner Encounter. It's in need of one engine (350/5.7L GM) I may replace with the same thing or go with diesels either a 6.2L or 6.5L which I understand the 350/5.7L parts will fit. My question is do the original engines rotate in opposite directions and if so how does one take care of that? Thanks, Jim === Buying an older boat with a blown engine is a very iffy proposition from a value standpoint unless you can get the boat for next to nothing and everything else is in great condition. It's a buyers market for used boats and I'd be surprised if you can't find something similar in good running condition. Having an engine swap done by a professional mechanic usually ends up costing over $20K. If you want a diesel powered boat you are better off to buy one already equipped.

They used to use reverse rotation engines but more recently they reverse it in the drive system. You don't say if it has outdrives or v drive. Or the age. Even if the engine is blown you may still be able to crank it and have some one watch to see which way it rotates. Failing that you can also trace the spark plug wires, the firing order will be different for a reverse rotation engine so just compare the two.

I agree with the ther poster about the desiels unless you have a good economical source for two of them. Those are not the best and you will have some issues with the accessories on the front. They will bolt up to your drive system though. A normal or reverse rotation rebuilt 5.7 marine engine is the cheapest way to go.