Repowering - OMC Cobra to Volvo SX

[Lark40]

I have a 1987 Starcraft Islander 221 aluminum cuddy, that meets my needs as being seaworthy, but easy to trailer. Problem is, the 4.3 2-bbl engine is smoking, thumping, and has low compression (<110 on all six). Also, have spent mucho research, time, and $ on the Cobra drive and really don't like it.<br /><br />So, since I have decided to spend money to turn the key rather than turn more wrenches, I'm looking at a repower package. The Volvo SX 4.3 GXi would be a bolt-in job with 50 more hp, and modern technology. The package includes everything from the alternator belt to the prop nut, except the prop.<br /><br />Have been working with my local Bombardier/Volvo dealer and agreed on a price. About $500 above the lowest internet price on a new-from-Volvo package and reasonable labor. Nothing signed, was planning to give him a big check next week to get the package on order.<br /><br />OK - what have I not thought of? This is a major investment, and I know my dealer, but don't know what I don't know.<br /><br />Advice please?

 

[Lou C]

Re: Repowering - OMC Cobra to Volvo SX

Can you insure the boat for enough so that incase you had a total loss, you could recover your investment?? To me that would be the major issue. Also what is the value of the boat if it is re-powered? I would expect that you are doing this to keep it a long while, not to sell it anytime soon, but it is like fixing up an old car, if you put in more than it is worth, you wind up having to use it for quite a while to get your money's worth. But if you really like it that is not a downside!! I may be doing this as well in the future!!

 

[rodbolt]

Re: Repowering - OMC Cobra to Volvo SX

hello<br /> to give that package a huge boost give up the SX and go with the composite DP drive. they work very well so far and are easy to service and not as heavy. in anycase I would buy the DP over the SX if it were my two nickels<br /> good luck and keep posting

 

[Lou C]

Re: Repowering - OMC Cobra to Volvo SX

A couple of other things, I saw in another thread that there is some problem with SX propshaft seals, Rodbolt is this a widespread problem?<br />The nice thing about the Volvo conversion is that you don't have to change the transom mount and you can still use the OMC tilt trim system and power steering. You do have to change the pivot housing since it is different. Does the repower package include the transom mount, or is it just the outdrive and the engine? Other things to ask, are the front and rear engine mounts the same as on the OMC engine or different? I have looked at parts diagrams for later model Volvos (up as high as doug russel marine has on their site) and it looks like the mounts, and transom plate/mount are the same as the Cobra but it is hard to tell for sure. I know that the Volvo power steering and tilt and trim are somewhat differnt from the OMC stuff, but you don't have to change that to make the conversion work.

 

[Lark40]

Re: Repowering - OMC Cobra to Volvo SX

Good point on the value. I do plan to keep the boat for several years. Will contact BoatUS about upping the insured value, if possible.<br /><br />The DP would be nice, but this is a day cruise boat that only weighs 1600 lbs. without the engine. Don't want to pay the extra bucks for the DP. Did not see the composite drive offered on these packages.<br /><br />The package is everything, including the transom assembly. The mounts appear to be the same. I am also buying new controls and cables.<br /><br />I just hope to have a smooth reliable setup. I never knew when the current engine would start or if any given reverse shift would be the Cobra's last.

 

[rodbolt]

Re: Repowering - OMC Cobra to Volvo SX

keep shopping a bit and see if you can locate it. its called a X-DP. it works unbelivably well with that tiny 4.3. the shield and drive assy is composite with an aluminium core. almost 1/2 the weight of a conventional SX. and yes its a worldwide SX problem on the propshaft seals. its a bad supplier apearently. they have been failing for 5 years that I know of. one day they will fix it. price up the X-DP with a 4.3 package. fits right in the old cobra transom cut out.<br /> good luck and keep posting

 

[Lou C]

Re: Repowering - OMC Cobra to Volvo SX

Bet the boat will run great with that.<br />I think I am going to have to keep the Cobra going a few more years, as long as I can get parts for it.