Should I buy a new outdrive to go with engine

[New_Blue]

Hi all,

I have convinced my self that the engine(305 chevy) in my 1979 Searay is toast(crack on block and exhaust manifolds...water in the oil) so I decide to get chummy with the local marine mechanic. He tells me that I can go ahead and get a new bobtail engine but I might as well set aside another $3K for the work he's going to need to do to go through my outdrive.

Here's my question for the brain trust...is he right? The outdrive is a Mercuriser 898 and I haven't a clue how the other owners did or didn't take care of it. Based on the condition of the motor I think it's safe to say the bare minimum was done at best..

Lastly, if I decide to save my pennies and get a new outdrive to pair up with the motor what should I get? I would like something that is easy to do maintenance on and repair(I would like to do the work myself).

Thank you for your help!

 

[diehard]

Re: Should I buy a new outdrive to go with engine

if it aint broke don't fix it

 

[dubs283]

Re: Should I buy a new outdrive to go with engine

$3k sounds like quite a bit to "go through" a drive, unless he means completely rebuild it.

 

[maxxman04]

Re: Should I buy a new outdrive to go with engine

for $3K he better be getting you a new outdrive. as far as i know, and others can correct me if i'm wrong, the 898 series isn't a bad unit, with parts still available. i have heard that an Alpha 1, Gen. 1 will bolt right up to your existing gimbal housing. so options for upgrade/replacement for the 898 is easy enough.

 

[TilliamWe]

Re: Should I buy a new outdrive to go with engine

For $1195 you can have a Brand New SEI 106 drive from Sterndrive Engineering. Sold right here on iboats. $3000 to "go through" an outdrive is Ludicrous, and I would instantly distrust that mechanic.

 

[TilliamWe]

Re: Should I buy a new outdrive to go with engine

if it aint broke don't fix it

I also agree with this statement. And if/when it breaks, go buy the $1195 SEI 106 that is a direct replacement for your current pre-Alpha drive.

 

[mylesm260]

Re: Should I buy a new outdrive to go with engine

Yeah, Bubba has a very good point.

305 is garbage, it's like the power of a V6 (4.3) with the fuel consumption of a V8.

Right now you have the opportunity to go with a proper 350 (5.7), I would definitely do that.

If you want to spend money on something, do this:

Get yourself a 5.7 vortec long-block, a new intake manifold, a new carb and new exhaust manifolds / risers and a heat exchanger (closed cooling kit).

The rest of you're accessories should work with the 5.7, unless you run into the flywheel diameter issue, in which case you will also need a new coupler, flywheel and starter.


Life is better with a heat exchanger, and you will never have to worry about a cracked block again.

 

[New_Blue]

Re: Should I buy a new outdrive to go with engine

I love this place! Thank you all for your help! Some day I hope to know enough to help others like me that are new to boats and have questions!

I now have to find a "real" marine mechanic in Richmond VA....any suggestions???

 

[mylesm260]

Re: Should I buy a new outdrive to go with engine

5.7 and closed cooling