Questions regarding 888 Outdrive

[Jeff2112]

Hello everyone, I have some questions about a older boat i just purchased and maybe you all can help me out.

I just recently purchased a 1973 Cobalt, with the ford 302 180hp, 888 mercruise outdrive. I got the boat for a pretty low price and was aware that some work was needed. I changed the outdrive oil and noiticed it was milky. Also after running it for a few minutes there was some oil seeping out of the prop area. Also there seems to be a small hose from the drive to the housing which i think carries water to the engine that is leaking. So i bought a service manual to aid me in repairing this unit. Just a quick note i have 30 years in the automive repair field and somewhat knowledgable in mechanical repair . With that said i figure i need to reseal this unit and replace 3 hose i can see at the back of the unit. I am looking for some suggestions and comments as a first time out drive repair adventure. Is it worth my time to do this or should i look in to purchasing a complete out drive and go that route. Any help and suggestions would be appreciated.

Thnx jeff2112

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: Questions regarding 888 Outdrive

Welcome to iboats......
I would just go with a new drive from SEI for $1200 off of ebay....
The tools for properly disassembling & resealing a drive & the cost of any parts you need to replace will put you close to that figure....
Not worth it on a 35 year old drive, IMO.....
I would also replace the u joint bellows when you redo that water hose.....
That should not be a problem for someone with your experience.....​

 

[Jeff2112]

Re: Questions regarding 888 Outdrive

Hey thank you for a quick and prompt responce, sounds like a plan. i know about tool expence buying them over the years for my field of work, and yes they get very spendy. thnx again