2800 scr engine removal

[seaway]

Hello
I just bought this 1998 boat with a 7.4 Mercruiser and bravo 3 outdrive.
I think I need to pull the engine. The big question is:do the exhaust manifolds need to come off and can I lift it pretty much straight up? I measured 29.5 inches fore and aft, plenty of room sideways. Your help very much appreciated.
Thanks

[mmwjr]

You should be able to leave the exhaust on the engine. Getting the exhaust elbows free of the rubber exhaust hoses will take some work.

Why do you feel the engine needs to come out?

[seaway]

Thanks for the reply Mike. The engine is rusty, steering is frozen at the transom assembly so I need to access that upper steering pin. It may need engine mounts, rusty. I'd like to clean and paint the bilge.

[jparsons121]

Not necessary, but I remove them anyway.

1) Like Mike mentioned, breaking the the exhaust free from the Y-pipe is easier when doing them 1 by 1. 2) Easier access to the transom area for the mounting bolts, starter connections, etc. 3) Reduced weight and size when picking the engine.

[shrew]

I had a 1997 2800. I've removed a 7.4 and installed an 8.1. Then later removed and reinstalled the 8.1.

1) Remove the hatches
2) remove the engine mount bolts.
3) walk the engine forward on the motor mounts.
4) Remove the exhaust manifold, riser and elbow on one side. (We did the Stbd side, but I can't remember if that was to also remove the fuel pump (7.4) or the Cool fuel module (8.1) or the water pump (either).
5) Hook the engine to the lift
6) Once lifted about 1" you need to spin the engine 90 degrees.
7) now inch the engine through the hatch opening.

On the 1997 2800 the arch is swept back. We actually bring the crane cable in FRONT of the arch. The aft facing seat can be left in place. I don't recall the orientation of the 1998.

[seaway]

Thanks, very helpful info.