OMC slippage

[jmusgrove]

I am new to the boating world and really know nothing about boats. I am looking at a 1976 American ski boat with a 351 V8/235(rebuilt) with a OMC outdrive. These boats seem to be rare and I like the style so would like to purchase. The guy that owns it says that under medium to strong acceleration the outdrive slips. He said that the gears look fine, but could be rounded enough to be slipping.... After some research this doesn't sound like the problem. I called a couple local shops and they said it could be the Hub or Pin needs replacement. I have no clue what that means. Anyone else ever experienced this problem? Should I stay away? Thanks.

 

[chiefalen]

Re: OMC slippage

Read my lips run and keep running as far away as you can. Do not look back.

 

[jmusgrove]

Re: OMC slippage

Ok, that doesn't answer my question at all. The boat is for a steal of a price, and could probably get it even lower. Wouldn't mind having to stick some money into it...some.....why should I run?

 

[sea wolf]

Re: OMC slippage

Ok, that doesn't answer my question at all. The boat is for a steal of a price, and could probably get it even lower. Wouldn't mind having to stick some money into it...some.....why should I run?

Because it will be in the shop, or you will spend more time working on it than you will spend pulling skiers. OMC has been out of business for years, & parts are getting rare for that drive. Here's an example. A buddy of mine has a 1979 Sea Ray 20' bowrider with probably the same drive you're looking at. He recently spent $1400 on ebay for used drive parts. Did all the work himself, took it out once, & the engine overheated due to water pump failure because he screwed up something when reassemling the lower unit. So now the boat sits in his yard as a lawn ornament. Do yourself & your wallet a favor & find a boat with either a Merc or Volvo drive.

 

[Bondo]

Re: OMC slippage

Should I stay away?

Ayuh,.... If you want to be a Boater,..?? Yes,...Run Away....

It's dirt Cheap for a Reason.....

 

[1976 Slickcraft]

Re: OMC slippage

If it's close to me I'll take it, been looking for the upper gear set for a 235 horse drive. I'ts worth a small fortune just to part out.
Jesse

 

[chiefalen]

Re: OMC slippage

Almost 35 year old boat. Drive a real pos.

You asked i gave a snide remark.

You will never fully enjoy that boat.

When your done fixing it you could have had a reliable boat for the same money maybe 8 years old.

But here are some questions for you.

Whats the hull made out of?

The stringers water logged?

The transom rotted out?

Why is the boat so cheap?

Does it run?

If it does run have you run it on the water?

Hows the out drive oil look?

Good luck!

If you read my signature, is the reason i usually don't give advice. You one or the other kinda man.

 

[Lyndy]

Re: OMC slippage

I am new to the boating world and really know nothing about boats. I am looking at a 1976 American ski boat with a 351 V8/235(rebuilt) with a OMC outdrive.

I purchased a 1974 boat with 225HP OMC OD and 1999 5.0 Merc Chevy Engine with little to no experience in Maintaining Outdrives or Marine Engines. I have done 90% of the work myself. If you wish to spend the time learning the drive and Engine, scouring the Internet for OMC Parts and maintaining it yourself, plus have a survey done prior to purchasing then go for it. It has been a great experience for me. Do not regret it. Will probably NOT do it again.

What you describe could be rather simple to resolve with a rebuilt or new prop. Or not. That is the adventure. A Drive Train that old and being OMC I guarantee you have more adventures ahead of you before you get it running properly and safely.

Hope this helps coming from someone that did darn near the same thing you are thinking of doing.