Looking at 1988 OMC 3.0L?

[TonyS]

I am looking at a 1988 16.5 foot Oliver Bowrider with a 3.0L OMC. Boat is in really good condition, and the engine has only 300 hours on it. My understanding is that most os these 3.0l engines were 140HP, but seller says this is rare 170 HP. I know that OMC had a H.O. 3.0L in that year, could this be what he is talking about or is he full of it. Thanks.

 

[cmyers72]

Re: Looking at 1988 OMC 3.0L?

I am not sure but I was told the same thing I would to know to. I have a 1985 Sea sprite with a 3. liter and when we got it that is what owner told me. so if anyone knows it would be nice to find that out. sorry I couldnt help you I am to to the boating world and trying to find out has much as I can

 

[jimmmy]

Re: Looking at 1988 OMC 3.0L?

I just bought a 1988 Oliver1650 that has a 3.0 L Mercruiser 130HP. Nice boat, just having a few engine problems....probably needs a new carb?

 

[denniz]

Re: Looking at 1988 OMC 3.0L?

3.0 has always been 140 hp... 3.7... 470 etc. is a 170 hp. Know what your buying. Does it have closed cooling? Whats the valve cover label say?

 

[stub756]

Re: Looking at 1988 OMC 3.0L?

have the baot run in the water first at all speeds idle high rpm etc.. i bought an 88 2.3l that has taken 2 weeks to figure out the overheating problem... IF its running find its prolly a good buy.. check for water in oil etc.

 

[Pete30]

Re: Looking at 1988 OMC 3.0L?

I have an 87 OMC 3.0L, the engine was submerged and sat for several years, after a little TLC the engine is strong starts every time, runs like a charm. The outdrive on the other hand has had a few shifting problems. From what I have read (others know more on this subject) the drive should shift easily if adjusted properly, but if not adjusted properly it can eat its gear sets. I would do a search for 3.0L OMC cobra and see what you find.

 

[TonyS]

Re: Looking at 1988 OMC 3.0L?

Hi Rod, I picked up an OMC manual from the library and matched the model# from the engine and confirmed it was a 130HP Model# 302 AMR GDP. I asked the guy selling the boat, he was a little surprised. That's what the guy told him who he bought from 10 years ago. Thanks for the help.