OMC 3.8 L. Comments wanted

[Bubba1235]

Looked at an older (89) 17' bowrider that is in real nice shape. It has a 3.8 liter V-6 (188 H.P) and OMC outdrive and I am not at all familar with this combination.

Is this a Chevy (Buick) V-6? Anyone know of any issues with it? Seemed to run nice but always looking for input before buying an unknown.

Oh, 380 hours on it...

 

[Fishermark]

Re: OMC 3.8 L. Comments wanted

Since you used "comments" and "OMC" in the same sentence, you are bound to get quite a few.

Most will tell you to walk away - if not run away - from that boat and find another. I can't say I disagree.

 

[deputy00791]

Re: OMC 3.8 L. Comments wanted

Hi,

I do have a 1983 18' bowrider with that exact motor and never had any problems with it. Other than changing the ball gears I have put no $$$$$$$$$ in it.

 

[Don S]

Re: OMC 3.8 L. Comments wanted

For one thing, OMC never used the 3.8 in 89, only the older (pre 86) with stringer drives had that engine. An 89 would be a Cobra drive and a 4.3L V6, not a 3.8.
Assuming it's actually a 4.3, the Cobra drives are fine when they work. Problem is, OMC went out of buisness about 10 years ago. While there are plenty of aftermarket parts for them available, finding techs able to do drive work and other OMC specific jobs that you may not be able to do is going to be a problem. JUst depends on your location and what is in your area.

 

[Fishermark]

Re: OMC 3.8 L. Comments wanted

Ok, but umm, why? Are OMC outdrives no good and to be avoided? Just asking, never had one.

The problem is the company is no longer in business and has been out of business for a long time. I don't care to debate whether the outdrive is inherently bad ... many have had no problems with their units.

The big problem is what happens when you DO have problems. It is becoming harder to find a mechanic who will work on them. If you do all your own work, then I would say "Go for it!" But if you take it to a mechanic, at the very least ask around and see if anyone local will work on it for you.

 

[Lou C]

Re: OMC 3.8 L. Comments wanted

I have an OMC and am lucky to have good service available. Keep in mind the last stringer drives were built in 1985, that's 23 years ago, OMC is out of business, BRP is not making new parts for them either so you have to depend on the aftermarket. Call around to some marine mechanics and see if they will even work on a stringer. I bet you'll find that most won't that's your answer, stick with Merc or Volvo if you want I/Os.

 

[Coors]

Re: OMC 3.8 L. Comments wanted

The choice is,, learn it, or buy a black anchor..

 

[Bondo]

Re: OMC 3.8 L. Comments wanted

OMC is out of business, BRP is not making new parts for them either so you have to depend on the aftermarket.

Ayuh,.......

If you're looking to bring onto yourself headaches,+ Heartaches,....

Go ahead,+ Buy a boat powered by the,...
Obsolete Marine Company

If you want to Go Boating,.....
Buy a boat powered by Volvo, or Mercruiser......

 

[chiefalen]

Re: OMC 3.8 L. Comments wanted

run as fast as you can away from that omc.don't look back or you will be sorry.