Over the past few years I've always watched the ads for used boats, especially in the fall when everyone seems to be getting rid of them. When I found something that seemed do-able Murphy would conspire and nix the notion.
Until this year. I discovered a 1978 Four Winns Marquis 160 stern drive and jumped on it. The boat has already been winterized and is currently waiting for spring in my driveway.
I've been reading through the threads for awhile and have learned much. Such as the need to change 'bellows' seals and 'impellers'. I'm mechanical and have no problem turning a wrench, however, I could use some guidance in the form of a service / maintenance manual. Doing some keyword searches as well as the Mercury website I cannot seem to find anything close to what I need. Or I'm just not digging deep enough...
My question (s) would range from;
1. Does anyone know anything about this boat model / engine / lower unit that may lend me some advice on specifics to watch for and tend to?
2. Where can I find a mechanics manual for this engine / stern drive combo?
3. What can I expect as far as performance from this boat? Will it pull a skier? 2 skiers?? I'm 6' 200 lbs and have many hours skiing as a youth. I now have 9 grandchildren ranging from 11 years old to 2 years old. I want very much to teach them to ski / wake board & such. They are equally excited at the prospect. I DO NOT want to do something that will turn them away and create any fear of these activities so I will be very careful when the time comes.
I'm excited and now anticipate spring more than ever. For more reasons than just getting rid of the snow!
Dave
Until this year. I discovered a 1978 Four Winns Marquis 160 stern drive and jumped on it. The boat has already been winterized and is currently waiting for spring in my driveway.
I've been reading through the threads for awhile and have learned much. Such as the need to change 'bellows' seals and 'impellers'. I'm mechanical and have no problem turning a wrench, however, I could use some guidance in the form of a service / maintenance manual. Doing some keyword searches as well as the Mercury website I cannot seem to find anything close to what I need. Or I'm just not digging deep enough...
My question (s) would range from;
1. Does anyone know anything about this boat model / engine / lower unit that may lend me some advice on specifics to watch for and tend to?
2. Where can I find a mechanics manual for this engine / stern drive combo?
3. What can I expect as far as performance from this boat? Will it pull a skier? 2 skiers?? I'm 6' 200 lbs and have many hours skiing as a youth. I now have 9 grandchildren ranging from 11 years old to 2 years old. I want very much to teach them to ski / wake board & such. They are equally excited at the prospect. I DO NOT want to do something that will turn them away and create any fear of these activities so I will be very careful when the time comes.
I'm excited and now anticipate spring more than ever. For more reasons than just getting rid of the snow!
Dave
