Assessing A Free Boat

[Stamey]

I just obtained a 1968, 20' Fibra cuddy cabin for free and am trying assess it. I can tell the volvo outdrive setup has a Ford 302, or maybe 289, and I was told that it had been in the water only once since the outdrive was rebuilt. It has been sitting for about a year, and the former owner dumped it because it was "leaking water from the oil filter". I don't know what that deal is yet, as I still haven't gotten it started.
What I would like help with is the following:
1. Where do I find the model/serial numbers on this setup? I may nee to scrape paint, so I'm hoping someone can tell me where to look first.
2. Does this setup use an impeller in the outdrive? I ask this because this rig doesn't have a water pump on the front of the engine. It has what may be a positive displacement pump mounted where you would normally see a PS pump, on the side. The inlet for the water, on the outdrive, is at the very front of the unit, instead of the middle, so I am wondering if this setup uses a positive displacement pump to suck the water all the way from the lower unit into the engine, and no impeller.

I will supply more info as I can find it.

Pics of boat. Tried to put them into the post but they won't display, so I attached them.

Thanks,
Chris

 

[zbnutcase]

Re: Assessing A Free Boat

Nope, no pump in the drive, the belt driven one on the side is it. And check for freeze cracks carefully! And remember, a free boat is rarely a bargain!

 

[Stamey]

Re: Assessing A Free Boat

Yeah, I know about that! That's why I am in the process of assessing the situation. I have no idea about this supposed leak it has, but will try to get it running to see about the leak. First thing I have to do is install a starter. I am hoping an old starter I have from my Mustang days will suffice for now.

If no leak, or it is minor, and no cracks, then I proceed to see if it will float, and decide if it is worth the money to invest in fixing it up, like the marine starter I will have to purchase, etc.
I am open to all suggestions of things I need to check out on this unit.

Thanks,
Chris

 

[proshadetree]

Re: Assessing A Free Boat

Check the oil is it over full? Why should water come from an oil filter? Can you reach the drain plug? Water goes to the bottom first. Even though it will be tempting do not use that mustang starter for ever it will not be pretty. Older boats had serial stamped onto a metal tag. I have seen many that had no form of ID. See if you can even register this thing before spending much money on it. Check condition of fuel tank . Is the gas stinking? If it is remove line from pump and install portable unit until you fire her up.