Klunk and stall out during acceleration on OMC 2.3L Cobra?

[Betty the Boat]

I have a 1989 Bayliner Capri with an OMC 2.3L Cobra. During acceleration and strain (towing children on a tube), I get a large klunk, almost like I hit a log in the water. The boat stalls out for a second, but then climbs up to speed. I seem to notice that the frequency has increased lately. I am not sure if this is because we are using it more to pull my 3 younger children on a tube. It seems like something in the gears is either slipping or not grabbing. I am not very savvy when it comes to boat motors etc. Any thoughts or ideas would greatly be appreciated. On a better note, the engine runs great when I get it up to speed and level off. The issue is only under acceleration and under load.

 

[HT32BSX115]

I have a 1989 Bayliner Capri with an OMC 2.3L Cobra. During acceleration and strain (towing children on a tube), I get a large klunk, almost like I hit a log in the water. The boat stalls out for a second, but then climbs up to speed. I seem to notice that the frequency has increased lately. I am not sure if this is because we are using it more to pull my 3 younger children on a tube. It seems like something in the gears is either slipping or not grabbing. I am not very savvy when it comes to boat motors etc. Any thoughts or ideas would greatly be appreciated. On a better note, the engine runs great when I get it up to speed and level off. The issue is only under acceleration and under load.

Howdy,

Welcome aboard!

It sounds like you may have a lower shift cable adjustment problem and the clutch dogs are not fully engaged. This can quickly "wear" on the clutch dogs where after several of these episodes they're not able to stay in gear.

This is something that will not last very long before causing permanent damage (and may already have) .

You NEED to have the drive looked at by someone that is familiar with the Dog-clutch Cobra.

In the meantime, you shouldn't operate the drive at any power setting above idle.

Sorry about that,


Rick