What engine do I have?

[BlueDart]

I'm new to boating and have many questions so here I am again.
Just purchase a 1985 16 foot Doral motored by a 3 L 140 HP stern drive.
On researching the engine and challenges that may be anticipated I found reference to OMC, OMC Cobra and even OMC King Cobra.
Some confusing remarks, at least to me, re continued production and availability of parts.

How do I know which version I have and is there parts concern with OMC stern drives.

Thanks

 

[Scott Danforth]

you will want to post pictures. for 1985 you could have a cobra, or you could have a left over stringer 400

and yes, OMC went out of business almost 2 decades ago. many parts are no longer available. the ones that are will be from the aftermarket only.

If its a stringer, start looking for the two vertical drive shafts, the intermediate shaft a seal kit, the ball gear kit, a new tilt motor and a waterpump. eventually you will need them all.

 

[southkogs]

If I had you figured out right in your other topic, you've got a Stringer. Why don'tcha' post a few photos up of the drive and let's confirm what you have? That'll help you move in the right direction.

 

[BlueDart]

Thanks and will get pictures for posting of the stern drive. If the motor is going to start needing parts no longer available can one practically replace the drive??

 

[bruceb58]

Never seen a Cobra on a 1985 boat but I guess there can always be a first time.

For a history of OMC stern drives:
http://www.glmmarine.com/30yearsomc.html

 

[southkogs]

Thanks and will get pictures for posting of the stern drive. If the motor is going to start needing parts no longer available can one practically replace the drive??

You can keep 'em going ... given the choice between buying a Merc or an OMC, I'd suggest a Merc. BUT, if you have an OMC you can keep them running with patience and care.

Are you having problems with the drive?

 

[BlueDart]

No not at this time. Long story short I have always been drawn to boats and enjoy the water but never owned a boat.
We have for years had motorcycles and found of late riding very little.
So when advertising to sell received an offer of a trade for this Doral OMC stern drive bow rider.
The boat appeared to have been well cared for and the seller started it for me with a garden hose attachment.
Made the deal brought it home and anxiously awaiting spring for first launch.
I believe it is all in good shape for the age but when I saw reference to the stern drive being obsolete I began to wonder about problems I might encounter.
If my research is correct I could purchase a conversion kit to install a Mercruiser lower unit which although expensive $3,000 approximately all would not be lost.
I'm the worrying kind and like to look ahead and be prepared as not to be surprised.
Time will tell.

Thanks

 

[jerryjerry05]

Some of the last 85's from Bayliner came with a Cobra setup.
Just a few.​
But I'd bet yours is the stringer.
There probably isn't a kit to convert a stringer but there is one for some Cobras.

Have an OMC specialist go over your setup.
It might be better to sell the parts and get a Mercury or Volvo.
Just remember any Volvo will cos​t more for replacement parts.

 

[Scott Danforth]

If it is a stringer, the transom needs to be redone to fill the giant hole the boot is currently covering.

You can keep them running, however the parts are becoming scarce. If you want to swap drivelines, find a donor boat

 

[BlueDart]

Have not been able to upload pics of stern drive. Not a techie or a mechanic I must confess.
The stern drive and the boat complete have been checked over at the local marina and said to have been well cared for.
So if I can provide the same level of care should be able to enjoy for a few years.

I would appreciate recommendation on the best manual which would provide me with some guidance on maintenance.

Thanks to all for your contributions.

 

[southkogs]

If it's in good shape, you should be able to keep it running indefinitely with only minimal issues. You WILL have things go wrong with it, and you WILL have difficult problems come up ... but if you're patient, and enjoy it (both in the garage and on the water) you'll do fine. It would be good to do some "Googlin'" on the Stringer an read up on the drive. Over time, you'll likely understand the drive better than many of the marine mechanics you encounter.

I'm not a mechanic, and I kept a Stringer running for over six years with a limited amount of trouble and expense.

You should be able to find the shop manual for your rig HERE. And I do recommend using a real shop manual.

 

[Scott Danforth]

If you find a mechanic that knows stringer drives, he will be pricey (and near retirement). As kogs mentioned, learn the drive.

The vertical shaft will need replacing at some point in the drives life. The ball gears are a maintenance item.

As far as manuals, I think eBay for a used factory manual. Clymer also makes one, not a great manual, however better than nothing.

 

[BlueDart]

Thank you southkogs and Scott Danforth for the information and encouragement.
I will continue my research and study ... after all what does a Canadian wannabe boater do in the winter.

 

[Scott Danforth]

Play hockey and drink beer

 

[BlueDart]

Too old to play hockey anymore so will just drink the beer.