71 Reinell, OMC out drive (225 HP) outdrive stuck

[blodfloden]

I inherited this boat from my uncle and the engine wouldn't turn over (Chevy 350). So I pulled the engine in it and the engine is fine.....when it was in, the engine would only turn about 1/4" and then stop. I'm utterly new to this and just need to know where to start with this outdrive (even if its to take it to the dump). The prop turns freely by hand....so some where in the middle is the problem....but where to even start looking for a rookie...since the engine is out i've torn it down and rebuilding it ...I"m not new to mechanics..just boats.... btw is that like a boat water plug sticking out of there above the tag???

 

[kenny nunez]

The engine is probably a 307. OMC did not use 350s until 78. On the starboard side of the upper gear case there are 2 screws for draining and filling. Remove them and watch what comes out. Probably the upper gear set is locked up. It could be a lower gear housing but the uppers are the most trouble.

 

[blodfloden]

I'll go drain it now and see what happens.

 

[blodfloden]

I took one screw out of the right side....one a giant plastic one from the back (between the drive and the boat ...and not a drop of anything came out. I did not really find any other screws on the side.

 

[kenny nunez]

Since nothing came out of the upper gear housing it is probably trashed. The plastic plug is just for access to a grease fitting where the drive swivels. It looks like it was not used much.

 

[blodfloden]

its been sitting for 'years' but with my uncle...that could mean a decade....thank you for your help

 

[southkogs]

If you remove the drive (completely from the boat) and disassemble the upper gear case from the lower; you should be able to turn the ball gear (by hand or with a tool) on the top of the upper and have the bottom shaft rotate. That'll tell you if the upper is shot.

If it is, you can probably find a used replacement (if you want to fight this out).

 

[blodfloden]

Are there special tools involved with this? I'm down with fixing pretty much anything but i'm told that the OMC is like making love with the devils sister while blindfolded with no hands.

 

[blodfloden]

at this point...depending on the cost...I may just sell the whole thing for what I can get out of it. its like...27'? cuddy cabin...other than the disassembled motor and the shot outdrive...she's pristine LOL

 

[southkogs]

Are there special tools involved with this? I'm down with fixing pretty much anything but i'm told that the OMC is like making love with the devils sister while blindfolded with no hands.

LOL ... close.

The Stringer is old and obsolete. Some parts are getting harder to find, and most marine shops won't work on 'em (may not even really know what they are). I don't dislike the drives, there are some nice things about 'em. BUT it's likely cheaper and easier to get something else with a mercruiser system.

If you really like the boat, you can keep 'em running. But you need to go into the vintage (sometimes finicky) drive with your eyes wide open.

 

[blodfloden]

Sold it for 200$.

 

[blodfloden]

I have 2 props for this...where's a good place to list them? I have no idea anything about them...sorry...its my last question.

 

[southkogs]

Craigslist or eBay. That's your best bet.