1980 OMC SailDrive 15HP Salt water?

[Cal25]

Does anyone have experience using an OMC Saildrive in salt water? Are there any problems with using this engine in salt water? Any possible preventative maintenance?

 

[Dhadley]

Re: 1980 OMC SailDrive 15HP Salt water?

The biggest problem is parts availability. Most of the powerhead is the same as a 35 hp outboard except the exhaust manifold. I dont think they are available anymore so if that needs replacing youre kinda out of luck. <br /><br />I would have a dealer run an availability check on some of the drive parts just to see whats out there.<br /><br />Good luck!

 

[Cal25]

Re: 1980 OMC SailDrive 15HP Salt water?

This last winter I purchased a rebuilt OMC engine for either spare parts or replacement because some parts are hard to find. Somebody mentioned to me that that they have problems running in Salt water. I am hoping that this was just a rumour.