Straight six 165 hp chevy merc motors scarce help

[pancake]

need a inline six short block for my boat project. since hurricane sandy these motors are becoming harder to find, yet auto junkyards still have a number left. I know you can buy a new short block but the 2000$ is more than the boat is worth. can I use one of a junkyard chevys block and switch over all my marine components. I aware that some motors don't have the mount that is needed in front of the oil filter. any tips which chevy motors do have that?

 

[jtybt15]

Is your boat raw water cooled?

Auto engine will likely have less power than a marine engine but those inline six's are indestructible. Trouble is, they're so indestructible, they often have poor maintenance. I've seen failures from oil pan rusting out and cracked block and manifolds from freeze.