1969 Volvo/289 in Highliner 21

[roscoe1]

I am thinking about buying a 1969 Highliner 21 Sportsman with the original 289/Volvo outdrive. The outdrive has a Holman Moody tag on it. The boat has been restored and is perfect. The boat has always been in freshwater and everything currently works well. My question is: are these old drives good and reliable? Can I still get parts for them? What should I look for? Should I run away?<br />Thanks,<br />John

 

[whywhyzed]

Re: 1969 Volvo/289 in Highliner 21

If the drive is a "200" model, it might be at it's limits behind the 289, but the 270 or 280 model drive is one of the best. Parts are available new and used for all those drives.<br />If you read this forum long enough you'll know you probably should run away, but not because of the engine or drive... they're good models.. but compression tests, fluid samples to look for milky oils or water etc recommended... cut open oil filter with a proper filter cutter. have someone experienced listen to it run etc.