2.5 260 vs 2.5 280hp

[Blowerboy]

CAN ANYONE TELL ME HOW TO TELL THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A 2.5 MERC 260 VS A 2.5 MERC 280 BY LOOKING AT THE ENGINE/POWERHEAD?

[Esox4130]

The heads

[whipper]

Charging system also.

[nelson edens]

the 280 has a big honking alternator on top

[outasite]

The alternator bosses on the 280 block are drilled and tapped.I don't beleve the 260s are tapped.

[BC Black Max]

260s have switch boxes and 280s have coil packs.

As menstioned as well the 260 has a stator, and 280 has alternator.

260 has Mercury ignition box - 280 has a Motorola computer. With completely different wiring. It's says 280 hp on the box.

[Michael J Giesler]

Post a picture

[Blowerboy]

I so appreciate sharing your knowledge and the wonderful helpful attitudes. Can someone post a picture of the two diffrent looks next to each other of the 280 alternator/vs 260 stator. 260 switch boxs vs 280 coil pacs. 260 ignition box vs 280 motorola computer I would post a picture of the two motors I am going to look at but I do not have a cell phone old school 70yo. I have to look at a boat this weekend with twin 2.5's and want to know if it is twin 260's or twin 280's and I know very little. again tnx for responses and all the help. I The owner says twn Mariner 280's and I just want to be sure. I will try to bring a merc certified mechanic withme if possible.

[capteliminator]

I have never seen a Mariner 280? Has anyone else?

[Blowerboy]

That might answer the question right there. Tnx

[Blowerboy]

Did mariner ever make a 280 2.5 or just 260's 2.5? If so the mota's are 260's.

[brund]

Get the serial # off the block and call mercury marine

[Esox4130]

The heads. 280 heads are differnt.

[Blowerboy]

How do the 260/280 heads look different? Do you have a pic. I would post pics of the heads on the motas when i see them sat but i do not have a cell phone. what exactly should i look for in the difference of the 260/280 heads? Tnx

[Tomanytoys]

Correct me if I'm wrong but if it's a 280 it's gotta be an Alien cowl. The alternator won't fit under a regular light weight cowl.......