New to 3.8 OMC, looking for a headsup??

[jawzzy]

Just bought an 83 Chaparrel 198C with a 3.8 litre OMC. Got a GREAT deal, but now I think I know why. After reading only a little here, I see getting an OMC may have been a risky choice. <br /><br />I believe the 3.8 is a GM engine, rated at about 170horsepower, correct? <br /><br />I am also looking for any advice on preventative maintance for the OMC sterndrive. I read something about a Red cable replacement, but not sure it pertains to this unit? Also, I see listings of 400/800/cobra etc for the models of sterndrives. How can I find out what I'm dealing with here?<br /><br />Have already order a service manual for this exact unit, but won't be here for a couple of weeks, so any heads up on advice here would be greatly appreciated, thanks

 

[denniz]

Re: New to 3.8 OMC, looking for a headsup??

iF YOU HAVE A 3.8, YOU DONT HAVE A COBRA, You have whats called a stringer. The Red cable does not apply to your drive. Cobras started in 86.( Sorry about the cap lock it was unintentional)

 

[jawzzy]

Re: New to 3.8 OMC, looking for a headsup??

Thanks for the info. So now I know I have a Stringer OMC, how can I identifie which series it is: 400/800/etc???

 

[jawzzy]

Re: New to 3.8 OMC, looking for a headsup??

Well, finally got it out today for the first time. Went pretty good, but have a number of questions:<br /><br />First, the engine would run a about 110F at low speed/rpms, but at 30mph/3000rpm and higher, it ran about 160F, which I know is still low enough, but am I looking at replacing the impeller, or is this normal?<br /><br />Second, the trim switch on the throttle doesn't seem to work at all. What should I be looking for here? And the up/down gage stays near the up position all the time, with very little movement. I would preseme the gage is inaccurate, although on take offs, the boat does not plain at all, keeping the bow up for what seems to be too long before it does plain out? <br /><br />Third, the main up/down for the outdrive worked fine, until I parked it in the driveway, then lowered it. It stopped half way down, and now won't do anything. Again, any suggestions here?<br /><br />Any ideas or advice would be greatly appreciated Thanks!!!!