Need opinion on OMC's

[snowthrower]

Hey there all,

I'm looking at a 1984 reinell 19' with an OMC outdrive and chevy 305 V8.

I own a mercruiser and have rebuilt 3-4 volvo uppers for freinds but have never had any experience with the OMC's. So that's were you all come in, I need some help with this before I drive 173 miles north to look at it.

I don't know what model of OMC it is, or if there is even a model for them just that it's an 84 with 305.

Are they any good?

Are there things to look for?

What are the major failing / maintence points on the drive?

What else can you tell me about them, to keep them going or to stay away from with them.


The 305 I know was never the "best" motor built buy GM but should serve well in a boat and I would hope that it would pull harder then the 1967 four banger in my current boat.

 

[Gary H NC]

Re: Need opinion on OMC's

If its a 84 its most likely its the old OMC stringer drive.The Cobras came out in 86. The stringer is the one with the big rubber boot around it.Parts are getting really hard to find...I say don't waste the gas to even go look at it...

 

[snowthrower]

Re: Need opinion on OMC's

Here is a pic from the add, that might help you know what I'm looking at.

I would hate for it to be a drive that's not worth owning.

My 1967 mercruiser 120 is becoming a major pain to deal with, and that's part of the reason I want newer boat.

 

[HT32BSX115]

Re: Need opinion on OMC's

I would absolutely stay away from a Stringer since you have to replace it with a Stringer (or do a lot of fiberglass work)​

If you have a Cobra and it's running good you're fine if it's NOT a 460. You can obtain most parts for the Cobras. (exhaust manifolds and couplers are NOT available for the 460 though)

The good thing about the Cobras is you can bolt a Mercruiser into the same hole a Cobra came out of and you may be able to use the engine if it's a GM. (I don't know about the Fords)​

If was buying a boat I would steer clear of ANY OMC.​

Cheers,​

Rick​

 

[Bondo]

Re: Need opinion on OMC's

My 1967 mercruiser 120 is becoming a major pain to deal with, and that's part of the reason I want newer boat.

If you were to buy that old OMC,..........

You will look back at that statement with Fond Memories,..........


Just by the shear #s of units sold,....... For Old Boat owners,.....
Mercruiser is the Best brand to be looking for old used Parts to keep'm runnin'.......

Buying a boat with OMC Power,...........
Is the Worst Possible investment in your boating future.............

 

[snowthrower]

Re: Need opinion on OMC's

Thanks, that is kinda what I thought. I love the boat but don't want to spend all summer working on somthing, I'd rather be behind it on the lake