Help Identify this engine PLEASE!!!!

[jandjbayliner]

Ok my wife and I bought a 1991 bayliner this weekend. We took it out on the lake after fueling up, and the boat ran good for the first 100 yards then it started spitting and spuddering. We called around to find out where to take the boat to have it serviced, and everyone thought I was some dumb dumb when I explained how the engine looked. The outdrive unit appears to be a force (according to the sticker above the foot anyway). I was told the powerhead is a mercury. I was also told this engine is refered to as an L-Drive. Can anyone tell me where to look for an ID plate or how to find out the engine HP.
Thanks

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Help Identify this engine PLEASE!!!!

If the engine is inside the boat mounted vertically.and the outdrive looks like a typical outboard, then you do have an L Drive boat. Shame you did not ask before buying as most members on the forum would have advised against purchasing the boat. Do you have the option of returning it?

Unfortunately the L drive was a poor combination and had problems. Parts, especially for the drive itself, are difficult to find.

However, on the positive side, The engine is a FORCE made by mercury and many Force engine parts will fit it.

Unfortunately, again, many mechanics will refuse to work on any Force engine and some just know nothing about the L Drive.

Your best bet is to describe the problem as completely as possible here on the forum and people experienced with Force engine will guide you through repairs.

Don't worry! Even if your only engine experiebce is turning the ignition key, with hand tools and guidance you will be abkle do do many repair and maintenance tasks.

 

[roscoe]

Re: Help Identify this engine PLEASE!!!!

If it is a 1991 l-drive, it is a Force powerhead and drive system.

If it has 3 cylinders, it is 90 hp.
If it has 4 cylinders, it is 120 hp.