cobra outdrive problems

[j_pete003]

I took my 1989 180 Four Winns boat to a marina with an engine that wouldnt turn over. He said my engine was blown. So I took the outdrive off and turned the engine over. NOT THE ENGINE!!!! The engine actually started up with a bump of the key. OOPPS. But that isnt the problem. What could have happened inside the outdrive that would keep the engine from turning over?
Blown gears? Is there a solution to this without taking this to the marina again? What should I look for when I pull this apart?

 

[Bt Doctur]

Re: cobra outdrive problems

check the oil level and condition first, pull the drain and see what comes out.
If water is present in the drive it`s most likely toast, run low on oil will cause bearing damage or lockup.Splitting the drive is fairly easy to isolate the upper or lower damage

 

[j_pete003]

Re: cobra outdrive problems

The prop shaft turns freely. If that will narrow it down any.

 

[imported_TheMan]

Re: cobra outdrive problems

What about the u-joint turning freely?

I'm not an OMC guy, but the prop shaft means nothing if the outdrive is in neutral. If you can't spin the u-joint, your gears are likely f.ed up.

 

[Gary H NC]

Re: cobra outdrive problems

Take the 4 bolts off the top of the drive,pop the cover off and you will see the upper gears..
Look for metal shavings and discoloration on the gears..

 

[180shabah]

Re: cobra outdrive problems

Take the 4 bolts off the top of the drive,pop the cover off and you will see the upper gears..
Look for metal shavings and discoloration on the gears..

Cobras are notorious for destroying the upper gears - Sad part is, it is totally preventable. The shift cable MUST be adjusted exactly to spec, check it every year and the drive will last just as long as any other.