Will a 3.8 OMC outdrive stand the pressure behind a 5.0

[Aintjudge]

Both outdrives are 1985 models, the 5.0 one is shot and there's a decent priced 3.8 for sale. Was just curious if they'd interchange. It's a friends boat and he's gave up on it, but if they'll swap out, I'll put it on for him. Thanks for your replies in advance....

 

[Howard Sterndrive]

Re: Will a 3.8 OMC outdrive stand the pressure behind a 5.0

pressure?

either are good to 260HP

which half is shot?

The lower units are the same- identical.

The upper of the 3.8 has a different gear ratio and would require a different pitch propeller at the very least. If you already have a 21P or 23P prop on the boat now, using the 3.8 upper wouldn't be advisable, because 25P or 27P props aren't very common or useful behind a runabout/cruiser.

 

[Aintjudge]

Re: Will a 3.8 OMC outdrive stand the pressure behind a 5.0

The top half is shot, gears trashed, also the shift cables are bad, it has a 15 pitch on it now, could I combine the good bottom w/ the 3.8 top, and make it work?

 

[Howard Sterndrive]

Re: Will a 3.8 OMC outdrive stand the pressure behind a 5.0

yes, and then go to a 17P or 19P prop to compensate for the gearing change.

That boat will probably perform better with the 3.8 gears... must be a heavy boat

 

[Aintjudge]

Re: Will a 3.8 OMC outdrive stand the pressure behind a 5.0

Yes, it's a open bow, 19'6" SeaRay 85 model, pretty heavy..Thanks for the info. I'll get to it...