Looking at a Byliner with a 5.7 OMC Cobra..

[Newbie@boats]

Owner stated heads were rebuilt along with carb as well, I am not to familiar with these engines, I had a Merc 470 once and it was an absolute nightmare and I am NOT looking for another headache like that engine, before I go to look at this boat can anyone give me some pointers on what to look for or should I just steer away while I am ahead? LOL

 

[KD4UPL]

Parts and service for an OMC will likely be difficult to find and expensive if you find them. I would assume this is a 90's era Bayliner? Also something to stay away from in my opinion.

 

[wrench 3]

That engine is your standard small block Chevy. Dam near bullet proof. Which makes me wonder why the heads were redone. It was probably overheated, which is not usually a major problem with them, but I would insist on at least a ten minute water test.
The early Cobra drives are getting a little hard to get some parts for, but the later ones are identical to the Volvo Penta.

 

[Newbie@boats]

Yes it's a 1989 Bayliner, I've had a few my dad had a few and we never really had to many issues with them to worry me at all. I'm not really sure why the heads were re done, and I won't be able to sea trial it due to the lakes being frozen around here and with the weather id have to re winterize it if they weren't frozen. Doesn't seem there's many complaints with the engine itself it seems more like its the outdrive that's the problem child.

Here's the link to the ad

https://www.ebay.com/ulk/itm/151990756133

 

[bruceb58]

Don't buy a late 80's Bayliner and/or an OMC Cobra.

 

[HT32BSX115]

or should I just steer away while I am ahead? LOL

Yes. You should just steer away while you're ahead.

 

[Newbie@boats]

Well then I guess my search continues!!

 

[HT32BSX115]

Well then I guess my search continues!!

Look for a boat that has a newer Mercruiser or Volvo drive with a GM engine.