Why would an intake crack? What model outdrive do I have?

[Reckedracing]

I am trying to find out what outdrive would have come on a boat I recently acquired.

Boat is a 1988 V-Master/Cavarelle with Merc 3.0 liter.

I am completely new to the boating world and thats all the information I have right now.

I also just found out the intake manifold is cracked and leaking water.
Apparently this is the intake/exhaust manifold which runs over $200 on ebay.

I guess the boat says Four, then 3.0 liter, and powertrim xd.

 

[brisboats]

Re: Why would an intake crack? What model outdrive do I have?

The manifold would crack from not being winterized properly. The out drive you should have would be a mercruiser alpha one generation one with a 1:98:1 gear ratio.

 

[cr2k]

Re: Why would an intake crack? What model outdrive do I have?

Agreed.

However you may have a cracked block and/or head too.
Do a compression check before you spend your money on one part.

 

[Reckedracing]

Re: Why would an intake crack? What model outdrive do I have?

Thanks for the responses.
I got the chance to go over the drivetrain for numbers last night and I did find 1.98R on the outdrive.

The motor runs well and does not appear to be leaking water anywhere else, and no water is getting in the oil so I'm thinking the block/head is good but will pull a compression test to be sure. What psi should a 3litre have in new condition per cylinder so I have some sort of baseline.

The motor is incredibly clean with all the tags clearly read-able. Not sure if boat motors tend to stay so clean, but it looks to be in good shape.

So far we've found the following to fix/replace.
Intake Manifold
Gimble Bearing
Seal to the front of the gimble bearing.
U joints going into outdrive.
The bearing under the top of the outdrive cover.

Needs a tune up and fluids changed then I think it'll be water test next weekend.

Anything else I should look into?

I have lots of model/serial numbers if anyone needs them.
The boat came with all the original books also.