converting from OMC to other outdrive

[robertdwest]

I have come into possession of a 1995 Sea Sprite that had an OMC outdrive but the boat has nothing currently installed; no motor, no outdrive. It was suggested in another section of the forum that perhaps I should look into installing a mercruiser due to parts availability. My question is, what issues do I need to worry about as far converting from OMC to others on the transum connection. Right now it is just a huge hole.

Thanks

 

[slasmith1]

Re: converting from OMC to other outdrive

if you use a volvo setup the hole in the transom sould match up. if you use a merc replacement you will need to modify your transom.

 

[Don S]

Re: converting from OMC to other outdrive

The "Hole" in the transom is the same as Mercruiser, and the Volvo SX style drive and the OMC Cobra (Pre 94)
Choose what you want.
BUT!!!! When you find it, ask here before you buy. You just never know what you could be missing.

 

[slasmith1]

Re: converting from OMC to other outdrive

The "Hole" in the transom is the same as Mercruiser, and the Volvo SX style drive and the OMC Cobra (Pre 94)
Choose what you want.
BUT!!!! When you find it, ask here before you buy. You just never know what you could be missing.

Thanks for correcting me I was thinking the transom plate is the same for the late model cobra and the volvo but it doesn't matter since theres just a hole.

 

[HT32BSX115]

Re: converting from OMC to other outdrive

Here's an OMC "hole"

And here's a Mercruiser "hole"

A 1987 Cobra came out and a 1997 Mercruiser Bravo went in.

Notice that other than being cleaned up and painted (and 2 additional holes drilled at the top) they're the same.


Cheers,


Rick

 

[robertdwest]

Re: converting from OMC to other outdrive

this is what mine looks like....

[/IMG]

 

[chiefalen]

Re: converting from OMC to other outdrive

So now what? You ain't gonna buy new stuff are ya?

You need a donor boat with everything and then transfer everything over, just no omc ok. But that was a late model omc in there don't know the motor size but the ring got 22 holes it was between 1981-1986.

 

[superpop]

Re: converting from OMC to other outdrive

Bummer, that is not the right hole for either a Volvo or a Merc set up. It is OMC specific. You need a transom job and then a new hole cut for the drive you choose. Hope you didn't pay much if anything for that boat, unless it is in perfect shape it just does not make sense to do what is needed to convert that to a new drive set up, unless you do all the work yourself and know what you are doing.

 

[Bondo]

Re: converting from OMC to other outdrive

I have come into possession of a 1995 Sea Sprite that had an OMC outdrive

Ayuh,.... I found the Misprint,.... You've got a 1985......

 

[robertdwest]

Re: converting from OMC to other outdrive

Didn't pay anything for it. from what I can tell by the serial number it is either a 1988 or an 81 given that the serial is SSB10477M81H. At this point I am seriously considering that I might be better off getting rid of the shell, but the hull seems in good shape. No damage to the keel. Though I may see about picking up a mercruiser and having the transom hole redone to accomodate. No sense in picking up out dated equipment.

 

[Don S]

Re: converting from OMC to other outdrive

BUT!!!! When you find it, ask here before you buy. You just never know what you could be missing.

Now I know what you was missing .......... The right year.

The good news, all you need is a new transom, cut your new hole in the proper location and off you go!

 

[robertdwest]

Re: converting from OMC to other outdrive

What an adventure this is going to be. Guess its time to find a good fiberglass guy skilled with sterndrives. I'm figuring that once that is done then I'll be able to handle the rest myself. I am certainly getting a good education in sterndrives and years at this point.

Thanks for all the help on this.

 

[Don S]

Re: converting from OMC to other outdrive

Go do some reading in the restoration forum here at iboats. ALL kinds of good DIY info over there for fixing your transom.
When you are ready to cut the new hole, come on back. There are templates and install instructions around to help you get things done right when installing an engine and drive.