Re: 1986 checkmate eluder 3.8l OMC V6 I/O... is there enough to ski behind!?!?!?
Ayuh,.... Welcome Aboard,... Stringer drive, or Cobra,..??
That motor is one of the least desirable,... it wasn't made very long, 'n it was a long time ago,...
Yeah. According to the BRP
BRP -- Parts Catalogs
That would be a 1985 engine and drive. (The 3.8 was not offered in 86 by OMC)
Many boat manufacturers use last years model engine to use them up so if you have an "86" model boat, with that model engine and drive, it's an 85 model engine.
3.80
382FTMRCOM 1985
382SPMRCOM 1985
382STMRCOM 1985
384FTMRCOM 1985
384SPMRCOM 1985
384STMRCOM 1985
The "Stringer" engine and drives are still supported somewhat. Certain wear and minor parts are still available...
You can get them repaired (sometimes) etc....
Now, having said all that, (OMC no longer exists) Like Bill said, the 3.8L engine is a LOT like the 7.5L engine. They didn't make it for very long and the after-market didn't really come forth and support it very well.
That boat has nearly zero value and if it breaks, LESS than zero value.
I would suggest you look for something a tad newer with at least a 4.3L V-6, or 5.0/5.7L (GM) V-8 and ideally a Mercruiser drive (since parts/service are readily available)
Regards,
Rick
