OMC engines a bad idea?

[22E6441]

I'm looking for a relatively cheap boat....like around $2000. I've come across a few with OMC power...a couple 120's and a 140 I think.

I know OMC isn't around anymore, but was OMC not HUGE? Would it really be hard to find parts for an OMC?

I"m coming from a Chrysler motor, so I'd just like to have something that I could actually buy stuff for...like in a shop.

Thoughts?

 

[mthieme]

Re: OMC engines a bad idea?

The motor itself is going to be either Chevy or Ford. With the exception of marine gaskets, you can walk into NAPA and get everything you need.
Risers and manifolds are readily available. I have not run into a part under the doghouse that wasn't on the shelf at my local marine supplier (yet). I've more problems getting parts for my older OB's lately.
I assume it has an OMC OD on it (?). Cobra parts are still readily available (in my neck of the woods). The only part I can't get (so far) are the trim cylinder end caps...MC has a kit for theirs, OMC (or more appropriately, 3rd party such as Sierra) does not. I'll eventually have to replace the cylinders instead.
All but a couple of us would steer you away from this.
Personally, I have no problem with the setup. But I do my own work and have access to parts.

 

[woody82270]

Re: OMC engines a bad idea?

Good luck. Esp. on the outdrive as I'm finding out. OMC, OEM parts are at a PREMIUM price!!!!! If you have a stringer hydro-mechanical drive, (the worst of the lot) and it go's ***'s up, you won't be able to re-build or buy a new one. If you have a stringer all mechanical or cobra drive your in slightly better shape, but still not outta the sh*t. Engine parts via the aftermarket are readilly available though. View all my posts for more info, then you'll see.

 

[chiefalen]

Re: OMC engines a bad idea?

Theres is one omc motor that will give you nightmares, a 460, manifolds are no where. And isn't that the one with the 1000 coupler?

Out drive parts are still around for the stringer 82' on to 86' but i have seen the stringer on one 87'.

Cobra is ok king cobra forgetaboutit.

So in my humble opinion why stick all kinds of money into a boat that will be harder and harder to find parts for.

I'm like a pack rat when it comes to parts for my boat, if i'm lucky i won't have to tear it out and go with a merc.. But i thought of that also, and now have everything but a good leg for the drive.

Give me a little more time and i might have that also.

Remember this if you even sink all that money into the stringer drive you will have a old boat with a obsolete drive, who is ever gonna buy that from you?

 

[Bondo]

Re: OMC engines a bad idea?

Would it really be hard to find parts for an OMC?

I"m coming from a Chrysler motor, so I'd just like to have something that I could actually buy stuff for...like in a shop.

Thoughts?

Ayuh,...

Don't buy a boat with an OMC outdrive.......