Should I create a new topic for each issue?

[JBtwist]

I created an account on here just the last few weeks and want to thank everyone for the help so far!

We bought our first boat, a 1986 OMC Stringer 3.8L V6 Fabuglas Commodore and it's in really good shape! There are several small issues that I've addressed, but there others (like the tilt drive) which I've created a thread for. I'm trying to work down from the largest issue to the smallest.

I have trim issues, some wiring issues, speedometer and gas guage issues and questions about winterizing.

I've searched the archives and can't find any threads relevant to my issues. I'm curious if I create a thread for each issue as I tackle them? What's proper etiquette here?

 

[Scott Danforth]

I like to suggest that you break it down as follows

one general thread on your boat
one motor/drive thread on your boat
one wiring/gauges/etc thread on your boat

for winterizing, change the engine oil and filter, fire it up to make sure it isnt leaking, then drain the block and manifolds and hoses. you are now winterized. if you want to add antifreeze because it makes you warm and fuzzy, it must be rated to -100, it must be added with a funnel to the hoses at the thermostat housing. any other method will result in a freeze busted block

regarding your stringer
get different exhaust manifolds if you still have the batwings
get a factory manual for your drive ( https://www.outboardbooks.com/ )and check out www.sterndrive.info on videos on tearing your drive apart
pull your drive apart and replace the raw water pump and while at it, you really need to inspect the vertical shaft splines. replace the 3 pieces of the vertical shaft if there is any spline wear
replace the ball gears unless they were just replaced.
be careful with your shift cable, that lower shift cable is about $600 to replace

 

[southkogs]

^^^ Yup. Sounds good.

Welcome aboard.

 

[aspeck]

Welcome to the forum ... there are some really knowledgeable people on this forum (and a few who think they are ... it won't take long to know the difference). Scott has given you some good advice above. Post away and remember that boats are supposed to bring us relaxation and enjoyment, so enjoy the ride!

 

[PITBoat]

Scott - can I butt in? I've still got the "batwings", at least I think so since what's on there is really ugly and I haven't seen anything like that... Is it ok to run them if they are still 'good'?

Thanks for the good info. on winterizing, etc.

 

[JBtwist]

Great info, thank you.

I'm not sure what batwings are...I've googled a bit and I'm not sure my outdrive has what I'm finding. Here's the best pic I've got.

 

[GA_Boater]

Batwings are a type of OMC exhaust manifold and are prone to problems due to the one piece design.