Engine and Accessory Identification plus Steering Issue

[JFrog]

Very first thread on this forum, hoping I do this right.

Just inherited a 1985 Volvo Penta 125 (not sure if its A or B): Serial Number MWK45355E585.
Know alot about old cars but am brand new to the boat world and would like resources on accesory identification, cooling and the like. I'll need to start working on this engine to get it running again after almost 20 years.

Next, I already encountered a problem since my father in law lost the keys. I've pulled the ignition switch and am thinking about either getting a key made for it or getting a new switch. Any idea which would be less expensive?

Last, I already encountered a problem with the steering. First, I have no idea how this steering system works. I know it is a cable system. The boat is an 85 Invader V181. Anyway, I noticed that in the engine bay, the steering cable was no longer connected to the tiller (I think that's what the connecting arm is called to the stern drive :facepalm. I went ahead and reconnected that. It looked like the cotter pin popped out. I was hoping that when i reconnected that I would have steering but it didn't work. So, my steering wheel spins but doesn't control the stern drive. I already went through and looked at the cable from the wheel to the stern and all is connected. Does anyone know if I might be missing parts? Pulleys? Something else?

Any help would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks,
Keith

 

[Don S]

Re: Engine and Accessory Identification plus Steering Issue

You can go to the following link and type in AQ125 and can download the owners manuals for both the A and B
http://www.volvopenta.com/volvopent...lication_search/pages/publication_search.aspx

Just get a new 3 position ignition switch (Off, Run, Start) they are usually a lot less than getting a key made.

As far as steering, sounds like you need a new helm and cable assembly. http://www.iboats.com/Boat-Parts-Accessories/dm/keywords.steering systems

 

[JFrog]

Re: Engine and Accessory Identification plus Steering Issue

Thanks Don, the owners manuals are helping tremendously!

Yeah, I was actually thinking of just going to the parts store and picking up a 3 position ignition switch. That's what I ended up doing with my 62 Ford Galaxie.

Wow, the steering system packages are a bit overwhelming. Where do I start as far as finding what I need for my application? Is there a resource I can use to help me narrow the products down?

Thanks again,
Keith

 

[Don S]

Re: Engine and Accessory Identification plus Steering Issue

It all depends on what type steering is already in your boat. Is it rack and pinion or cable.. Then it's about rather you want regular or no feedback, how many turns lock to lock, then there is price, tilt wheel or not, and what you want.

 

[JFrog]

Re: Engine and Accessory Identification plus Steering Issue

The steering system that is in there right now is cable so I'd like to keep that set-up. Also, it does not have tilt wheel and I'm fine with that.
Not sure what regular vs. feedback is or what lock to lock means. Need some definition on that.
The more simple the better for this project.
Thanks,
Keith