New to OMC and need help identifying what type 5.0L I have

SoILLBoater

Recruit
Joined
Mar 27, 2016
Messages
1
Hello Boaters! I am new to the forum but a long time boater. I recently picked up a 19.5ft 1985 Bayliner Cuddy with a 5.0L OMC/Cobra outdrive. I got it on the cheap and needs a few things but I am running into conflicting data when it comes to getting the upper gears for the outdrive. I am not sure how to tell if my OMC is a Ford or Chevy 5.0L which apparently makes a difference in the upper gears for the outdrive. My outdrive is a Model 985271 but when I search for replacement gears there is a 21/17 and a 21/18 option. They don't give these away so I need to ensure that I order the right ones. Just want to make sure that I get this right so any help is truly appreciated. Also, where is the best pricing on these? I am not against used gears either so if someone has some laying around contact me and I will be glad to put them to use. Thanks again!
 

Scott Danforth

Grumpy Vintage Moderator still playing with boats
Staff member
Joined
Jul 23, 2011
Messages
50,944
If your distributor is on front of the engine, it's a Ford. If its at the back of the engine, it's a chevrolet
 

bruceb58

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Mar 5, 2006
Messages
30,610
That is a 1988 drive. Wonder how it got into a 1985 boat. Most 5.0L engines used 21/17 unless it was geared for high altitude. You should be able to pop the top cover and count the gears.
 
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