1990 4.3 OMC cobra - multiple questions - ignition, bellows, trim/tilt cylinder

[essayjay0]

Good Day All,

I have recently purchased a 1990 Four Winns 195 Freedom. I'm pleased with the way it's running, but I need to conduct some repairs/maintenance in order for it to be in top shape!

I have changed the cap, rotor, plugs, and now waiting for wires to arrive from rockauto.com. While I was changing the cap I noticed that the Prestolite BID system sensor (the one which pick up the signal from the timing wheel) was damaged, and cracked. I'd like to replace this part, but cant find a part number for it on any of the diagrams. Does anyone have a part number for it? I'm guessing that this part is no longer available, and I'm going to have to upgrade the distributor. If this is true, can someone provide me with my options for this system?

This is the first I/O boat I've owned. I'm taking on more water then I should be, and was told that the bellows appeared like it needs replacing. Is there any issue running the boat like this? This being with the bellows leaking? The bilge runs every 20 min or so, so I'm not all that concerned with sinking (I keep a close eye on it) but will I damage the out drive? I'm pretty handy and work on my own vehicles doing major bolt on repairs carb r&r, tranny r&r etc, will replacing the bellows, and gimble gear be within my abilities? Do I require any special tools?

The trim/tilt cylinder has a slow leak. There is no oil leaking out of it, but one of the internal valves is not closing properly causing the drive to drop unless strapped up... How easy is it to repair these? Are there parts? Is it only a case of cleaning?

I've searched the site for these questions, but can't find a thing. I apologize in advance if these have been answered, and would appreciate someone putting me on the right thread.

Thanks for any help provided!

 

[jerryjerry05]

Good Day All,

I have recently purchased a 1990 Four Winns 195 Freedom. I'm pleased with the way it's running, but I need to conduct some repairs/maintenance in order for it to be in top shape!

I have changed the cap, rotor, plugs, and now waiting for wires to arrive from rockauto.com. While I was changing the cap I noticed that the Prestolite BID system sensor (the one which pick up the signal from the timing wheel) was damaged, and cracked. I'd like to replace this part, but cant find a part number for it on any of the diagrams. Does anyone have a part number for it? I'm guessing that this part is no longer available, and I'm going to have to upgrade the distributor. If this is true, can someone provide me with my options for this system?
(the original came with a points setup)

This is the first I/O boat I've owned. I'm taking on more water then I should be, and was told that the bellows appeared like it needs replacing. Is there any issue running the boat like this? This being with the bellows leaking? The bilge runs every 20 min or so, so I'm not all that concerned with sinking (I keep a close eye on it) but will I damage the out drive? I'm pretty handy and work on my own vehicles doing major bolt on repairs carb r&r, tranny r&r etc, will replacing the bellows, and gimble gear be within my abilities? Do I require any special tools?
(Damages: the water going through the bellows can rest the u-joints and ruin them)(also rust the front yoke and cost lots)
(regular hand tools and a manual)

The trim/tilt cylinder has a slow leak. There is no oil leaking out of it, but one of the internal valves is not closing properly causing the drive to drop unless strapped up... How easy is it to repair these? Are there parts? Is it only a case of cleaning?
(best bet look for used on e-bay)

I've searched the site for these questions, but can't find a thing. I apologize in advance if these have been answered, and would appreciate someone putting me on the right thread.

Thanks for any help provided!

Read the stuff I added to each section.

 

[bruceb58]

1990 OMC did indeed come with an electronic distributor...not points. I believe it was the first year OMC went away from points.

You may decide to go with a whole new distributor rather than fixing your present one. Only problem is that you will have to mess around with the shift interrupt system. One good distributor alternative is a Delco Voayager distributor. The kit also comes with a new coil and all new wires. CDI makes an ESA that is compatible with the voyager.

 

[Lou C]

If you think the driveshaft bellows is leaking DO NOT keep running the boat, you will cost yourself a ton of cash. As in, a new gimble bearing, maybe u-joints, and you might corrode the surface that the input seal runs on the driveshaft which will cause gear oil to leak out of your outdrive. All bad stuff. The Cobra bellows is not hard at all to change, but do use an OE one (from a Evinrude dealer, or on line sources like Crowley Marine) in preference to an aftermarket one for this important part. The OE ones can last as long as 10 years but you should change em every 5 to be on the safe side.