how many hours is an SX outdrive good for before overhaul?

[splasher2k]

Looking at a 2003 boat with a carborated 5.0/VP SX outdrive with 500 hours. water pump been replaced this year, but will the drive soon need some work? Not sure what kind of life I can expect before spending significant $$?

 

[Don S]

Re: how many hours is an SX outdrive good for before overhaul?

It depends more on it's previous maintenance and use than the number of hours. A drive that has heavy use, leaks and a lot of water in it, has a very low life expectancy. While one that has light use, no leaks, and new oil yearly may last almost forever.

 

[skydiveD30571]

Re: how many hours is an SX outdrive good for before overhaul?

How many miles can you expect out of a used car? There's just no way to know for sure. But you can get a much better idea by paying close attention to maintenance and care performed by the previous owner.

Was the gear lube changed routinely?
Are the bellows relatively new and in good shape?
Is there water or gear lube in the bellows? Both would point to unattended problems.
Was the drive routinely pulled and alignment checked?
How about ujoints/gimbal bearing greased periodically?
Any grinding or strange noises while running? Does it shift seamlessly?

Most of these can be checked, and it all looks good I'd be willing to bet you are looking at a solid drive that will last a long time.

 

[aerobat]

Re: how many hours is an SX outdrive good for before overhaul?

i think 500 hours is not a problem.

i have 680 hours on the sx and never an issue with the drive.

the maintanance as well good oil is of course the biggest factor like the other posters stated.

 

[jerryjerry05]

Re: how many hours is an SX outdrive good for before overhaul?

Years ago,I was talking to the Volvo guys.We sold Volvos in Bayliners.
They told me of a test with Volvos and Mercruiser and the older OMC's
All three were hooked up to a Chevy smallblock.
They started them up and let them run.
The OMC broke after 50-55 hours The Merc.broke after 200 hours and they had to shut the Volvo off.
Good maint= longevity.