Is an OMC outdrive really all that bad?

[acperge]

I'm looking to buy my first boat, which I would like to be a project boat. The boat I was looking at is an 83 Conroy with the OMC sterndrive. Sounds like it's the 3.8 version with the 800 outdrive. My question is, are these setup really that bad that o should avoid this setup? I haven't had a chance to look at it yet, but the guy selling it claims he removed the outdrive recently to replace the bellows / transom seal. Is this a huge red flag? I'm told the boat runs good as of a year ago, but hasn't been run recently due to outdrive being pulled. Aparently this was to be a project for him as well, but he never really got started on it. If all the parts are there, what should I look for as far as what to avoid? Any help would be very appreciated!

Thanks,
Tony

 

[Howard Sterndrive]

Re: Is an OMC outdrive really all that bad?

there are Mercruiser parts and service available on every street corner for a fraction of the cost of servicing other makes.

If you are buying a 1983 boat, you want a Mercruiser drive behind a Chev based engine

I'm told the boat runs good as of a year ago, but hasn't been run recently due to outdrive being pulled.

that's the red flag, obviously
buy a boat you can water test

 

[zbnutcase]

Re: Is an OMC outdrive really all that bad?

RUN AWAY AS FAST AS YOU CAN! Yes they ARE that bad!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[HT32BSX115]

Re: Is an OMC outdrive really all that bad?

They were probably good when new and supported by OEM parts and service.

That pretty much doesn't exist now. (OMC has been out of business for more than 10 years)

If you are buying a 1983 boat, you want a Mercruiser drive behind a Chev based engine

That's what I would do!!


Cheers,

Rick

 

[sea wolf]

Re: Is an OMC outdrive really all that bad?

OMC 800, parts hard to find & expensive. Most mechanics won't touch 'em with a 10 ft. pole. In other words, they're a dinosaur & a money pit. I own a boat with an OMC Cobra. I wouldn't own another one if my life depended on it. Today, I had to drive 20 miles one way to get a t-stat. Why? Because nobody stocks parts for OMC's. I lucked out & found one at Napa. I'm considering repowering with an SEI drive system, but I'll lose my shirt when I sell the boat unless I keep the Cobra & find a sucker that's don't know any better. But, I don't want to screw anybody. So, I'm stuck with it. Find a Merc or Volvo.

 

[acperge]

Re: Is an OMC outdrive really all that bad?

Thanks for the feedback guys! I was afraid that would be the overwhelming response! I'll keep shopping!

 

[zbnutcase]

Re: Is an OMC outdrive really all that bad?

Thanks for the feedback guys! I was afraid that would be the overwhelming response! I'll keep shopping!

Good call and welcome aboard!

 

[superbenk]

Re: Is an OMC outdrive really all that bad?

Lack of any real support from a mechanic (even if you do most work yourself) & the constant fear your going to bust something that is insanely expensive or impossible to find isn't something I'd recommend for anyone. I got one for free and tend to regret it.