OMC upper gearcase changeout?

[Malibu223]

My 1978 200SR 21' SeaRay Cuddy cabin had the uppergear case rebuilt last year.My upper gearcase blew up 11 months later and I was very kind to it and checked the fluids regularly. I must get it fixed this Spring and am wondering if a Volva Penta change out is a good idea. My mechanic told me that the gearcase design is poor and the after market parts are of poor quality. Who out there has the technical advice to offer an idea to make my gear case more reliable with a better quality upgrade ... and price estimates. I live in Rocklin, CA.

 

[Don S]

Re: OMC upper gearcase changeout?

What are you now running that blew up a gear case, OMC, Mercruiser, Volvo?????<br />----------------------------------------------<br /><br />

wondering if a Volva Penta change out is a good idea.

Are you asking about the complete package, engine transom shield, drive etc?<br />------------------------------------------------<br /><br />

My mechanic told me that the gearcase design is poor and the after market parts are of poor quality.

The gearcase on what is poor design, your old or what you want.<br /><br />-----------------------------------------------<br /><br />Your leaving everybody stranded here wondering what you are talking about. Details about what you have and what you want.

 

[Bondo]

Re: OMC upper gearcase changeout?

Well Malibu223,<br /><br />1st off,.....<br />Welcome to iboats forums.........<br /><br />2nd,<br />Don is right..... More information is Better to help you.......<br /><br />With what you've stated, I'll venture a Guess ...........<br />A 1978 OMC is Probably a Stringer Drive.......... Your Mechanic is Right... These drives Were,+ Are a POS......<br />They were Marginal when New, at Best.......<br />If, by chance, I'm Right,<br />There is No Volvo conversion......<br /><br />The Only Up-Grades Available are to Fill the Transom Cut-out,+ Replace the Complete Driveline...............<br />Once you get that far, Volvo, Or Mercruiser can be Cut into your New Transom.................<br />

and price estimates.

Well, If you can find a "Donor Boat" for $5000. or Less........ Just Add the Labor........<br />New Drivelines probably Start at $10,000.... Plus Labor........<br /><br />Good Luck......