Cape Dory repower

[DZ1]

I’m looking to repower my recently purchased 1988 Cape Dory 28’ cruiser (hull #149). It’s a sweet little boat. The Chrysler 360 is dead. I’m wondering if a GM or Mercruiser 5.7 will fit. Or do I get the Chrysler rebuilt long block and add new parts? I checked with Michigan Motors on a drop-in ready fuel injected 5.7 that will bolt up to the Velvet Drive. The measurement from the center of the crank to the high point on that engine is 20.5 inches. The Chrysler in the boat now measures 19 inches from crank to top, and it barely fits. Any advice?
Thanks

 

[Crux]

I think it would depend on where the high point is on the Chrysler in its present configuration.
Closed cooling, manifold riser/style/ht, etc.
If its something more or less benign like flame arrestor height, that can be easily modified.

But you're pretty close now.......check out the below link to see various Merc configs

https://zmm.ca/en/br/documents/installation-drawings/

 

[DZ1]

Thank you!

 

[DavidM]

In addition to the factory offerings, Chrysler gasser, 100 hp Westerbeke and 200 hp Volvo diesel, the CD has been successfully repowered with the Yanmar 4LH 220 diesel. That has proved to be the best engine for that boat. Unfortunately it has been discontinued.

If you can find a running take out, or rebuilt Yanmar it would easily be worth another $20,000 over the cost of a new Mercruiser.

But rebuilding or replacing your Chrysler with a new long block would probably be the best and cheapest option. It would require no installation mods that the other options require. Those can easily add $5,000 to the cost.

David