help to start Mercruiser 228

[mlaymance]

I am considering the purchase of a bayliner.

It has a mercruiser 228 and alpha outdrive (1981).

Engine is supposed to have a recent rebuild.

The owner had removed the outdrive (to replace the Gimbal Bearing). Someone moved the shifter after the lower unit was removed.

Dilemma:

I want to start the motor before purchasing the boat, but the owner was told that you would have to re-install the outdrive prior to being able to start the engine.

I assume there is some sort of neutral safety switch that prevents the engine from starting when it is in gear.

Since there is no outdrive attached, is there any reason why I couldn't start the engine for long enough to determine its condition?

Any suggestions on how to "defeat" the Neutral safety switch? and its known location.

been reading the forums for the past few days... Lot of good info here that will help get me on the water.

 

[cyril420]

Re: help to start Mercruiser 228

They make adapters that go over the bolt on the bell housing and attatch to the water pick up. So, you can run it without the drive. What are you talking about the shifter?? Just check on the engine where the cables attatch and make sure it is neutral there

 

[mlaymance]

Re: help to start Mercruiser 228

Thanks for the response.

Perhaps I need to investigate it for myself, instead of taking his word for it (about the Neutral safety switch). I may go back this afternoon to take another look. I will also check on the adapter as well, or may be able to Rig something up so we can give it water.

My concern is this:
He says the motor runs great....but was unable to start it because he didn't know how to do it without the outdrive attached.

I will be buying the boat if the motor runs like he says it does. I just don't want motor problems along with the outdrive as well.

Tempus Fugit

 

[buggiedad_67]

Re: help to start Mercruiser 228

pull the pickup hose where it comes through the transome. hook up water hose, put shifter in net, and start.

 

[mlaymance]

Re: help to start Mercruiser 228

Thanks Buggiedad,

Will try that today if I cna get back over there.

Thanks,

 

[Bondo]

Re: help to start Mercruiser 228

Ayuh,...

A 1981 Bayliner,..??

I'd be awhole lot more concerned about Rotten Wood in the Hull rather than whether the motor will Start.....

 

[bomar76]

Re: help to start Mercruiser 228

A 27 year old Bayliner missing the outdrive and in pieces isn't really worth a whole lot more with a running engine than without.
That hull would have to be priced at trailer value to be even worth considering......and as for the "Engine is supposed to have a recent rebuild" ....never heard a seller say "Engine is just about toast, buy at your own risk".
Buyer be VERY Beware.

 

[mlaymance]

Re: help to start Mercruiser 228

Guys,

Thanks for the input. Concerns are really appreciated. I have looked as closely as possible for any signs of any rotten wood. The outter hull is barely scratched. the Inner floor feels very solid. I inspected behind upholsery and where seams are for any signs of leaks. I don't believe the boat was used very much, and looks like it was well taken care of maintenance wise by the previous owners. It has only had 3 owners.

The last owner didn't seem to take as much care of it as the previous owners. He only owned the boat for 2 years, and It was last in the water in Sept. of last year.

Other than close visual inspection, I know of no other way of checking for rotted wood other than cutting holes in the floor. I am sure that the owner will say .... sure go ahead and make a big hole there!

I have been around boats quite a bit, just never have owned an I/O.
It has only been in salt water 4 times according to the log that I found on the boat.

 

[bomar76]

Re: help to start Mercruiser 228

Honestly, unless you have mad mechanical skills and are prepared for a possible transom/stringer replacement project, I would not even consider that boat.

 

[Bondo]

Re: help to start Mercruiser 228

Other than close visual inspection, I know of no other way of checking for rotted wood other than cutting holes in the floor.

Ayuh,....

An Icepick,+ a Close look at the transom, behind,+ below the motor is how it's done......