Recent content by bbracken

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    Draining 5L OMC

    Drive is 1993 OMC Cobra 5.0 L HO in 19 ft. Chris-Craft I found a block drain on the port side, but not on the starboard. I couldn't find any manifold/riser drains. I disconnected hoses from manifolds. I also disconnected main water pump hose and what I think is PS cooler hose. Am I missing...
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    Fuel tank access Chris Craft

    Boat is 1993 Chris Craft 19 ft. with 5.0L OMC Cobra I want to replace the level transmitter in the fuel tank. There is what appears to be a hatch over the fuel tank. There are no screws or latches. I tried to pry it up with a couple of large screwdrivers, but could only get it up maybe 1/4"...
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    Thunderbolt IV sensor replacement

    1986 Alpha 1 w Thunderbolt IV ignition. I'm trying to replace the sensor in the distributor. I removed the two screws and disconnected the wires. I can jiggle it around, but can't get it out of the distributor housing. The distributor shaft is in the way. Do I have to take the distributor...
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    Who makes 5.0L OMC engine?

    Is it Ford or GM?
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    5.7L Mercruiser stalls

    Boat is 1986 Cobalt with 5.7L Mercruiser Alpha 1. It starts fine when cold. After running 5-10 minutes at 2500-3000, RPM drops, won't take throttle, eventually stops. I can't restart immediately, but can start after a few minutes. Then, won't take throttle, have to run just above idle to get...
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    Mirage boat: Good or not so good

    I am shopping for a used boat and am looking at a 1987 Mirage. I'm not familiar with this brand. Does anybody have a comment about the quality of Mirage boats?
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    5.7L Mercruiser stalls

    Boat is 1986 Cobalt with 5.7L Mercruiser Alpha 1. It starts fine when cold. After running 5-10 minutes at 2500-3000, RPM drops, won't take throttle, eventually stops. I can't restart immediately, but can start after a few minutes. Then, won't take throttle, have to run just above idle to get...
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    ball check/bp valve cooling syst 5.7L

    Mercruiser Alpha one 5.7 L 260<br /><br />What is the purpose of the spring loaded balls where the manifold hoses connect to the engine?<br /><br />Create back pressure???<br /><br />Check valve to keep system flooded??
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    Fun sailing on inland lake

    I'm looking for recommendations for small sailboat on lake in Wisconsin. Lake is 7 x 3 miles, 5-10 knot winds typical. I personally have experience in 21 to 38 foot boats, but am looking for something safe, easy to learn, fast enough to give sensation of speed, for adults and older kids. One...
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    Alpha One shift linkage

    I have 5.7/260 Alpha one<br /><br />I think this is a common problem. The center/neutral detent is not real positive, i.e. especially when going from fwd to neutral, you have to pull back a little from center. I have gotten used to this, but family members have a problem (obviously when...
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    Alpha One run w cracked exhaust bellows?

    1986 Mercruiser 260 Alpha One. I have bad exhaust bellows. I don't really have time right now to replace. I have to pull the whole stern drive, right?<br /><br />Is there any harm in running as is?
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    Cobalt 21 center of gravity

    I'm building a new house and am installing anchor points above the garage so I can lift my boat off the trailer for storage/maintenence. Can someone tell me where the center of gravity is? (fuel tank empty). I'm guessing about 2/3 aft.<br /><br />1988 Cobalt 21 w Merc 5.7/260<br /><br />Thanks
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    Education on cooling systems

    I consider myself a pretty good driveway mechanic and have quite a bit of experience with automobiles, some aviation, small engines, etc. I am also a retired engineer. I am new to marine powerplants. I am working on an overheating problem on a Merc 5.7 (see separate posting), and need some...
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    Overheating Merc 5.7/260

    We recently bought a 1986 Cobalt 21 with Merc 5.7/260. We have put only ten hours on it, but everything has been normal. The other day we took it out and it overheated. Hate to admit it, but it went over 200F before I noticed it. Temp had always stayed at 130F before. Kitchen stove test on...
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