I/o's

[Mark61]

I'm thinking about buying a open bow 20 footer, but it has a Chevy 305/ 240 hp engine. I don't know much about this motor. I'd appreciate any help. I'm not interested in the performance as much as dependability. Thanks I advance

 

[Bondo]

Ayuh,...... Welcome Aboard,.... The SBC is the most popular, dependable power plant to ever hit the market,.......

The 305 is the little sister to the 350, the flagship of the SBC line,......

What/ Who's outdrive is it bolted too,..??

Merc or Volvo is Great,...... OMC much less so,.....

 

[GA_Boater]

I wrote this before my computer puked while I was searching for the New Buyers Checklist.

Welcome aboard.

Like any mechanical device, maintenance is the key to both performance and reliability. The 305 basic architecture has been around since 1955, so it's a proven product as long as it's been properly maintained. The same goes for the drive and boat itself.

What boat are you looking at? We say around here there are three things to consider when buying a used boat. Condition, condition and condition! Click on the checklist link above.

 

[tpenfield]

:welcome: to iBoats . . .

I assume you are asking about a Mercruiser engine/outdrive, having posted in the Mercruiser forum (?)

Mercruiser is the most common/popular I/O engine and therefore has the biggest base for service/repair/parts. The engine is not a 'Chevy' per se, but a GM 305 engine block that Mercruiser buys and adds their fuel, electrical, and exhaust components.

Boat motor dependability does not compare favorably to automotive dependability by any means, so it is relative. But the GM V-8 and V-6 engines are generally deemed as 'dependable'. Marine engines in general are by no means trouble-free, and would require their share of maintenance and repairs.

I assume the outdrive is the 'Alpha' model, but post some more specifics about the boat/engine for more precise comments.

 

[Scott Danforth]

Welcome aboard

what vintage of boat are you looking at? Initial build quality is only good until the boat is sold

after that, everything is dependent on maintenance and care.

dependability and reliability are also dependent on maintenance and care.

if the boat is used and has been washed after every use, wiped down with turkish towels prior to being tucked away in a garage, and meticulously maintained, it will be reliable and dependable.

if the boat was neglected, used, and put away wet by storing it out back behind the garage under an oak tree......it wont be dependable or reliable