The marine engines are probably Mercruiser 230 or 250 engines. They will be almost a bolt-in swap for vehicles 1963 or newer, but major, expensive modifications would be required for a 1952. You would need to fabricate motor mounts, change the bellhousing and transmission, and probably modify or swap the rear end to get an open driveline. I am interested in looking at those marine engines, and I've got 216's and 235's on hand. Check your PM's.
Jerry
Edit: if your buddy is salvaging any sailboats, I'm interested in buying the lead ballast blocks they have.
Jerry
Last edited by Hotrod Lincoln; 01/12/2015 4:34 PM.