I have a 1974 Glastron V-179 with the classic 3.0L 140hp mercruiser engine and sterndrive. Here is my problem...I have used this boat with no problems for 2 years. This year on the 4th of july I had the boat out on the water for skiing and tubing for about 20 minutes..no prob..then while skiing I noticed a clicking noise that seemed to be coming from the engine compartment..I immediatly throttled down and it seemed like the engine just seized up..try to start and just starter clank...I always watch the gauges when I am running this boat and oil pressure was always above 40psi, temp at 145. I suspected maybe water in engine...none! Oil as clear brown as when I changed it. After sitting on lake for 5 minutes however I was suddenly able to start engine...ran fine..shifted into forward gear..problem..I was only able to coast onto shore with major vibration coming from drive unit..Anyone had this prob?...possible UV joint?...gimble bearing?..no lead-up symptom till now.
How does the gear lube in the drive look? I would pull the drive and inspect the u-joints for any excessive play for starters........J