Volvo Penta AQAD40A + 280 problems

[mrhassu]

I have a 1979 Volvo Penta AQAD40A with 280 sterndrive.
The drive floats up in reverse. I assume that buying new snap hooks (814392 and 814393) would fix this since they look really worn.

I have around 30 degrees of slop in my steering wheel. After going through the linkages I think the problem is with two ball joints(n. 20 in the image) that have a bit to much play. Is there any way to fix this?


I believe I have an oil leak possibly originating around the left back area of the engine. How should I begin to find the source?
The previous owner also never connected the oil and water alarms. Should i attach them?
How should I attach water cooling to the motor to test before launching? Most of the water lines are hard pipe and putting a bucket or something seems difficult.

 

[captmello]

Welcome. the outdrive kicking up is a common issue but rarely is it the Pawls (hooks).
You should get a factory manual for the 280, and study the tilt release system to realy understand how it works. there are many variables.
I can't help with the steering, mine was always a bit sloppy as well.
to run it on land, you need muffs that fit over the water intake on the outdrive and you must plug the drain hole in the bottom of the outdrive. a garden hose with good pressure should be used to feed the muffs.