Mercruiser Inboard Question

[nauticalneil]

I have recently bought my first boat with an inboard engine, its a 165hp mercruiser.
I would like to know if there is anything I should keep an eye out for with these engines? i.e do they have any common faults etc.
cheers

 

[Jon Fuller]

Is it a straight six engine?

 

[nauticalneil]

Sorry, no its a 4cyl, 1988 I think.

 

[Jon Fuller]

So is it an ali block, 4 litre job? this used to be the 470 or 488 (170 & 188hp)

 

[nauticalneil]

I couldnt tell you if its an ali block but I know its a 3.7lt.