Description
MerCruiser 350 5.7L ALPHA 300PS – Product Overview
The MerCruiser 350 5.7L ALPHA 300PS 8M0079530 is a strong and dependable V8 marine engine designed for boat owners who need a practical gasoline repower solution with proven MerCruiser performance. With 300 HP at 5000 RPM, this engine provides the power needed for acceleration, cruising, watersports, and general recreational boating.
Built around a 5.7L / 350 cubic inch V8 platform, this MerCruiser engine is designed as a partially dressed marine engine assembly. It is a practical replacement option for compatible aging MerCruiser inboard engines and MerCruiser Alpha sterndrive applications.
The engine includes key marine-grade components such as a 750 CFM 4-barrel carburetor, Thunderbolt V ignition with knock control, mechanical fuel pump, roller camshaft, nodular iron crankshaft, circulating water pump, bronze water crossover, flame arrestor, harmonic balancer, and 10-pin harness.
The MerCruiser 350 5.7L ALPHA 300PS 8M0079530 is a strong option for customers comparing MerCruiser 350 engines, 5.7L V8 marine engines, Alpha sterndrive repower engines, 300 HP marine engines, and gasoline inboard replacement packages.
Built for MerCruiser Alpha Repower Applications
The MerCruiser 350 5.7L ALPHA 300PS is designed for boat owners looking to replace or upgrade compatible V8 MerCruiser Alpha sterndrive and inboard engine setups.
Repowering a boat requires more than choosing horsepower. The replacement engine must match the drive system, cooling setup, harness, mounting arrangement, fuel system, exhaust routing, and installation space. This model is positioned as a universal power upgrade for compatible V8 MerCruiser Alpha sterndrive and inboard applications.
For many boaters, the 5.7L V8 platform is a familiar and practical choice. It delivers strong power without moving into larger and more complex engine classes.
This engine may also be adaptable to other sterndrive and inboard applications depending on make, setup, and installation requirements. Buyers should always confirm compatibility before purchase.
Customers can compare this product with related MerCruiser 5.7L engines, Alpha-compatible repower engines, exhaust manifolds, cooling kits, ignition parts, fuel system components, and marine installation accessories.
300 HP V8 Power for Strong Acceleration
The MerCruiser 350 5.7L ALPHA 300PS 8M0079530 delivers 300 HP at 5000 RPM, giving compatible boats strong acceleration and confident cruising ability.
This power level is useful for recreational boaters who need dependable performance for cruising, towing, watersports, planing, and carrying passengers or gear. The 5.7L / 350 cubic inch displacement gives the engine the working volume needed for strong throttle response and practical marine torque.
A V8 marine engine can provide the acceleration and mid-range strength many boaters expect from a performance-focused gasoline inboard or sterndrive package.
Performance depends on hull design, boat weight, propeller selection, drive ratio, load, water conditions, and installation quality.
For buyers searching for a MerCruiser 350 5.7L 300 HP engine, this model offers a focused and familiar power package.
750 CFM 4-Barrel Carburetor Fuel Delivery
The MerCruiser 350 5.7L ALPHA 300PS uses a 750 CFM 4-barrel carburetor designed to support consistent fuel delivery and strong engine output.
A 4-barrel carburetor helps provide the airflow and fuel mixture needed for a 5.7L V8 marine engine under load. It supports acceleration, cruising performance, and predictable throttle response when properly tuned and maintained.
For boat owners who prefer a carbureted engine over electronic fuel injection, this setup offers familiar serviceability and a traditional marine engine feel.
The engine also includes a mechanical fuel pump, helping provide a steady and reliable fuel supply in boating conditions.
Buyers should confirm fuel line condition, filtration, ventilation, carburetor setup, and fuel system compatibility before installation.
Thunderbolt V Ignition With Knock Control
The MerCruiser 350 5.7L ALPHA 300PS 8M0079530 includes Thunderbolt V ignition with knock control, one of the key performance and reliability features of this engine package.
The ignition system helps provide precise spark timing for efficient combustion and reliable operation. Knock control helps protect the engine by adjusting timing when detonation risk is detected.
This is especially important in marine environments because boat engines often run under sustained load for long periods. Proper ignition timing helps support smoother operation, improved combustion efficiency, and better durability.
The engine is designed to run on 87 octane fuel, making it practical for everyday recreational boating without requiring premium fuel.
For customers comparing MerCruiser replacement engines, the Thunderbolt V ignition system is a strong buyer-confidence feature.
Marine-Grade Durability and Internal Strength
The MerCruiser 350 5.7L ALPHA 300PS is built with strong internal components designed for marine operation.
The engine includes a 4-bolt main iron block, nodular iron crankshaft, roller camshaft, hypereutectic pistons, and iron cylinder heads with screw-in rocker studs. These components support durability, strength, and long-term performance under marine load.
The 9.4:1 compression ratio helps balance power, efficiency, and 87 octane fuel compatibility. Stainless steel valves also support long-term marine use and durability.
Marine engines operate differently from automotive engines because they often work under heavier continuous load. Strong internal components are important for reliability, especially in performance and repower applications.
For buyers who need a dependable 300 HP V8 marine engine, this MerCruiser 350 package offers a strong mechanical foundation.
Cooling and Exhaust System Features
The MerCruiser 350 5.7L ALPHA 300PS 8M0079530 includes important cooling and exhaust-related components for marine use.
The engine features a circulating water pump and bronze water crossover, helping support effective cooling and long-term operation. Proper cooling is essential because overheating can damage a marine engine quickly.
The package also includes a flame arrestor and harmonic balancer. The flame arrestor supports marine safety, while the harmonic balancer helps smooth engine operation.
Cooling system compatibility must be checked carefully during installation. Buyers should confirm seawater pump requirements, hose routing, thermostat setup, exhaust manifold compatibility, water flow, and drive compatibility before purchase.
This engine cannot be used with Alpha One Gen I drives because the required V-belt seawater pump kit is no longer available for proper cooling.
Compatible With Bravo and Alpha-Style Repower Planning
The MerCruiser 350 5.7L ALPHA 300PS is presented as a versatile repower option for compatible MerCruiser Alpha sterndrive and inboard applications. However, buyers must carefully confirm the exact drive generation and cooling requirements before ordering.
This engine is not suitable for Alpha One Gen I applications where the V-belt seawater pump kit is required and no longer available. This is a critical fitment detail that should be checked before purchase.
For compatible Alpha setups, the engine can provide a cost-effective V8 replacement option. It may also be adaptable to other sterndrive and inboard configurations depending on the vessel and installation requirements.
Before ordering, customers should confirm drive model, transom assembly, engine coupler, cooling system, exhaust setup, harness compatibility, control system, and mounting alignment.
Professional installation is strongly recommended for this engine.
Included Harness and Installation Components
The MerCruiser 350 5.7L ALPHA 300PS 8M0079530 includes a 10-pin harness, supporting compatibility with appropriate MerCruiser electrical and control setups.
A harness is important in repower projects because it helps connect the engine to boat controls, ignition, gauges, and related systems. Buyers should confirm that the included harness matches their existing boat wiring and control requirements.
The engine is described as a partially dressed marine engine assembly, so some components may still need to be reused, purchased separately, or adapted depending on the installation.
Buyers should confirm whether they need additional parts such as mounts, couplers, seawater pump components, exhaust elbows, hoses, control cables, drive components, fuel lines, or installation hardware.
Planning the complete installation before purchase helps avoid delays and unexpected costs.
3-Year Limited Factory Warranty
The MerCruiser 350 5.7L ALPHA 300PS is listed with a 3-year limited factory warranty, giving buyers additional confidence when choosing this engine for a repower project.
Warranty support is important because marine engine purchases are major investments. A factory warranty helps protect the buyer when the engine is properly installed, registered, maintained, and used within approved conditions.
Buyers should confirm warranty terms, installation requirements, service schedule, registration process, and any exclusions before purchase.
Professional installation may be required or strongly recommended to protect warranty eligibility and ensure correct operation.
For customers comparing new and used MerCruiser engines, a factory-backed engine with warranty support is a major advantage.
Why the MerCruiser 350 5.7L ALPHA 300PS Is a Smart Choice
The MerCruiser 350 5.7L ALPHA 300PS 8M0079530 stands out because it combines 300 HP V8 power, 5.7L displacement, Thunderbolt V ignition with knock control, a 750 CFM 4-barrel carburetor, nodular iron crankshaft, roller camshaft, marine-grade cooling components, and 87 octane fuel compatibility.
Many boat owners need a replacement engine that delivers strong power without unnecessary complexity. This MerCruiser 350 engine is designed for that need, offering familiar V8 performance and practical serviceability.
The engine is a strong repower option for compatible MerCruiser Alpha sterndrive and inboard applications, provided the drive and cooling requirements match.
The included 10-pin harness and factory warranty add value for buyers planning a professional repower.
For customers searching for a MerCruiser 350 5.7L ALPHA 300HP engine, this model is a strong and reliable choice.
Who Should Choose This Marine Engine
The MerCruiser 350 5.7L ALPHA 300PS 8M0079530 is best for boat owners, marine technicians, repower specialists, and performance boat users who need a compatible 300 HP V8 gasoline marine engine.
It is suitable for compatible MerCruiser Alpha sterndrive applications, inboard repower projects, recreational performance boats, runabouts, cruisers, and older V8 MerCruiser replacement projects.
This model is especially useful for buyers who value strong acceleration, carbureted serviceability, Thunderbolt V ignition, 87 octane fuel use, marine-grade durability, and a 3-year limited factory warranty.
Buyers who need Alpha One Gen I compatibility, electronic fuel injection, diesel power, a complete turnkey package, or a different drive configuration should confirm alternatives before purchase.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | MerCruiser 350 5.7L ALPHA 300PS 8M0079530 |
| Brand | MerCruiser |
| Part Number | 8M0079530 |
| Product Type | V8 marine engine |
| Engine Assembly Type | Partially dressed marine engine assembly |
| Power Output | 300 HP @ 5000 RPM |
| Displacement | 5.7L / 350 cubic inches |
| Engine Type | V8 marine engine |
| Fuel System | 750 CFM 4-barrel carburetor |
| Ignition System | Thunderbolt V with knock control |
| Fuel Pump | Mechanical fuel pump |
| Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 |
| Crankshaft Material | Nodular iron |
| Camshaft Type | Roller camshaft |
| Pistons | Hypereutectic pistons |
| Cylinder Heads | Iron with screw-in rocker studs |
| Valves | Stainless steel valves |
| Engine Block | 4-bolt main iron block |
| Cooling Components | Circulating water pump with bronze water crossover |
| Included Safety / Operation Components | Flame arrestor and harmonic balancer |
| Starter & Harness | 10-pin harness included |
| Recommended Fuel | 87 octane |
| Drive Compatibility | Compatible MerCruiser Alpha sterndrive and inboard applications |
| Important Fitment Note | Not suitable for Alpha One Gen I drive applications requiring V-belt seawater pump kit |
| Warranty | 3-year limited factory warranty |
| Recommended Applications | MerCruiser Alpha repower projects, compatible inboard replacements, recreational boats, performance boats |
| Main Benefits | 300 HP V8 power, strong acceleration, Thunderbolt V ignition, carbureted fuel delivery, marine-grade durability |
Key Product Details and Specifications
The MerCruiser 350 5.7L ALPHA 300PS 8M0079530 delivers 300 HP at 5000 RPM, giving compatible boats strong V8 acceleration and cruising performance.
The engine uses a 5.7L / 350 cubic inch V8 platform, making it a familiar and practical replacement option for many marine repower projects.
It features a 750 CFM 4-barrel carburetor, mechanical fuel pump, and Thunderbolt V ignition with knock control for reliable fuel delivery and ignition performance.
The engine includes a 4-bolt main iron block, nodular iron crankshaft, roller camshaft, hypereutectic pistons, stainless steel valves, and iron cylinder heads with screw-in rocker studs.
Cooling-related features include a circulating water pump and bronze water crossover. The package also includes a flame arrestor, harmonic balancer, and 10-pin harness.
This engine is designed for 87 octane fuel and is listed with a 3-year limited factory warranty.
Buyers should note that this engine is not compatible with Alpha One Gen I drives where the required V-belt seawater pump kit is no longer available.
Buy With Confidence
When buying the MerCruiser 350 5.7L ALPHA 300PS 8M0079530, customers should confirm boat model, existing engine setup, drive compatibility, Alpha drive generation, cooling requirements, seawater pump requirements, exhaust setup, wiring harness compatibility, fuel system condition, mount alignment, and installation planning.
This model is a strong choice for buyers who need a MerCruiser 350 5.7L ALPHA 300HP engine with V8 power, 4-barrel carburetor fuel delivery, Thunderbolt V ignition, mechanical fuel pump, marine-grade internal components, and 87 octane compatibility.
Customers can compare this product with related MerCruiser 350 engines, 5.7L Alpha repower engines, V8 marine engines, carbureted marine engines, ignition components, cooling parts, and installation accessories.
Professional installation is recommended for marine repower projects. Correct drive matching, cooling configuration, exhaust routing, fuel system setup, ignition connection, harness compatibility, alignment, and safety checks help support reliable performance and long-term engine life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the MerCruiser 350 5.7L ALPHA 300PS best used for?
The MerCruiser 350 5.7L ALPHA 300PS 8M0079530 is best used for compatible MerCruiser Alpha sterndrive applications, inboard repower projects, performance boats, cruisers, runabouts, and older V8 MerCruiser engine replacements.
How much power does this engine produce?
This engine produces 300 HP at 5000 RPM, giving compatible boats strong V8 acceleration and cruising performance.
What fuel system does this MerCruiser engine use?
The engine uses a 750 CFM 4-barrel carburetor with a mechanical fuel pump for reliable fuel delivery.
What ignition system does it have?
The engine includes Thunderbolt V ignition with knock control, helping provide precise ignition timing and engine protection against knock.
Can this engine be used with an Alpha One Gen I drive?
No. This engine cannot be used with an Alpha One Gen I drive because the required V-belt seawater pump kit is no longer available and is needed for proper cooling.
What fuel does this engine require?
The MerCruiser 350 5.7L ALPHA 300PS is designed to run on 87 octane fuel, making it practical for regular recreational boating.
Does this engine include a warranty?
Yes, this engine is listed with a 3-year limited factory warranty. Buyers should confirm full warranty terms, registration requirements, and installation conditions before purchase.

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