Looking at a1988 2.3L OMC VIP......

[newbie4life]

Are there any issues for this setup? Are parts still available for the engine, drive?

I have a Bayliner with the dreaded L-junk that I can't get anything for anymore, and don't want this problem again.

I went to look at it yesterday, and the 2.3L (FOrd) looks like BRAND NEW. It's at a marina, and they want $3k for it, but will take less. I think they got it on consignment with the folks that own it. My guess is they had the trim/tilt pump and lines replaced and didn't expect it to cost $600. Then, the marina kept the boat for quick sale.... except it's sat there all summer. The upholstery is good but dirty, the floor is solid all over, radio's been ripped out, Trailer looks like new, hull is in great shape. Overall, the thing really just needs a good scrub down.

If the engine were to fail, are thes 2.3L available? Would an upgrade to a 4.3L Chev be possible?

I'm going there this morning for a test run. If there are anythings I need to look for, or suggestions on price, by all means, let me know.

Thanks for your help.

 

[Don S]

Re: Looking at a1988 2.3L OMC VIP......

I have a Bayliner with the dreaded L-junk that I can't get anything for anymore, and don't want this problem again.

Sounds to me like you're about to jump out of the frying pan and into the fire.
OMC went out of buisness 10 years ago, trained service personel that can actually work on the OMC specific systems are getting fewer and farther between.
Most standard parts are available aftermarket, and ebay will be your friend.
The 2.3 was only used by OMC and only for a few years.
The drive, is a small version of the cobra. Lighter weight and smaller lower and completely wrong gear ratio for a 4.3 engine. Along with the exhaust y being completely diffent.
Best thing you could do is keep looking for a boat with a Mercruiser or Volvo.

 

[newbie4life]

Re: Looking at a1988 2.3L OMC VIP......

Sounds to me like you're about to jump out of the frying pan and into the fire.
OMC went out of buisness 10 years ago, trained service personel that can actually work on the OMC specific systems are getting fewer and farther between.
Most standard parts are available aftermarket, and ebay will be your friend.
The 2.3 was only used by OMC and only for a few years.
The drive, is a small version of the cobra. Lighter weight and smaller lower and completely wrong gear ratio for a 4.3 engine. Along with the exhaust y being completely diffent.
Best thing you could do is keep looking for a boat with a Mercruiser or Volvo.

Good to know. I will call the marina and tell them I'm not going to come down this morning. I asked them if parts were still accessible, and both of the guys responded quickly -- almost toooooo quickly -- "yeap. No problem."

I'm thinking they wanted to unload this thing, in order to get paid.

Thanks for the help.

Jason