It has been suggested that I try my question in this forum so, here goes.

I recently purchased a boat. It has two 454's and they are presently carbureted. I would like to convert them to MPI, if that is possible. As I am new to Chevies, I don't know Jack...

I AM a gearhead, however, having built my share of street rods and street machines. I've also been involved in cricle track racing and drag racing (high point of this experience was crewing on a gasser).

Ideally, I would like a TPI setup, but I learned that it never came on a big block. I'll just have to put my disappointment aside and look for something else. I know I do not want the aftermarket TPI for big blocks because their RPM range is too high for me (3500-7500).

Any suggestions?

 

Boat motors and car motors....apples and oranges. Boat motors are different internally as they are made to run at higher rpm for continuous periods of time. For instance your cruise rpm speed MIGHT be 3,500 rpm or even higher in a particular boat. It's made to run that way all day. If you did that with your car motor you would trash it in a hurry. Also you have 2 motors to deal with. You are talking $$$$$ (you won't believe it)

I have a carburated GM motor in my boat and I like it because I can adjust it in a hartbeat. Fuel injection is better and more efficient though.

My suggestion would be to go and price it at a Marina to get the feel of cost and fesability even though you have no intention of having them do it. (don't tell them that). Get prices and part numbers of the parts (MARINE parts - NOT auto parts). That way you'll know what you're in for if you decide to do it yourself. You could also find a boat forum and explore it there. Trust me - a 454 boat engine and a 454 car engine are two different animals.

 

Thanks, Dave. I appreciate the information. In fact, I will do just as you suggested--go to a local marina and see what they have to say.