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  1. Lou C

    Trailer wiring…how to improve grounding…

    This is in response to the thread about testing trailer wiring where the debate was whether separate ground wires were necessary or not. Grounds are a common problem and here’s how I solved it on my trailer…run ground wires tying together all parts of the trailer so that corrosion in a bolted...
  2. Lou C

    BRP reveals a new style of outboard, Rotax powered, horizontal crankshaft....

    https://www.manitoupontoonboats.com/us/en/discover-manitou/advantages/rotax.html Interesting, it is a low profile outboard with a horizontal crankshaft design, appears to be a DI 2 stroke.
  3. Lou C

    in reference to that closed thread on bellows replacement....

    https://forums.iboats.com/threads/how-much-should-bellows-change-cost-central-ca.697082/ Price wise and what needs doing, it depends.... if you are replacing the bellows to avoid a failure, it hasn't leaked yet, why then replace the gimble bearing? Mine was last replaced in 2005, the bellows was...
  4. Lou C

    2020 Merc 4.5 200 hp check engine light…

    On my brothers 2020 Merc 4.5 200 hp he just got a check OBD system light, I think the engine cut off at the ramp when we were launching it (also heard a warning beep) but it started right up. Guess he has to take it back to the dealer because it’s still under warrantee.
  5. Lou C

    got a question about a future V6 to V8 repower...

    OK seriously thinking of re-powering my old boat over next winter, from the 4.3 V6 to the 5.7 Vortec. Question is, the Cobra drive system I am using (I have a good original drive and a good spare) uses a 1:68:1 ratio. Will this work well with a V8 if I go to a larger pitch prop? I had used both...
  6. Lou C

    If you can't find a trailer scale where you are located....

    I was able to get an estimate of what mine weighs using a Sherline scale, with a 0-5000 lb meter, and a wood block to rest the scale on. So for my single axle trailer with 6,000 axle, 12" brakes, 225/75-15 D load range tires, I got 4650 on the axle, and 410 on the tongue. I don't have much...
  7. Lou C

    Question about re-filling an Alpha with the drive lube monitor....

    OK was doing a drive lube change on an Alpha with the drive lube monitor, I filled it till it came out the upper vent hole, (took approx 40 oz) then went up to the engine and refilled the drive monitor. Later I realized you are supposed to fill till it comes out the vent, replace the vent plug...
  8. Lou C

    some useful information on 5200, 6,000 and 7,000 lb axles (bearing/hub differences)

    http://blog.easternmarine.com/bearings-for-5-2-6-7k-axles/ I recently upgraded the 3500 lb axle on my old single axle Load Rite to a 6000 lb axle built for me by Champion Trailers (as was the previous axle). I always wondered what the differences were between 5200 lb and 6000 lb axles was since...
  9. Lou C

    If you need to replace your Cobra power steering actuator here are a few tips…

    Just had to do this on my 1988 4.3 Cobra, it was the original unit so I can’t complain too much. A small leak turned into a big one dumping p/s fluid in the bilge. I was able to pick up a good condition used one and NOS actuator and hydraulic cylinder. There are 2 issues with this job: Access...
  10. Lou C

    Condensation in exhaust manifolds...

    Ok got a question about condensation in exhaust manifolds. I came across this by accident because I had to remove the Barr Marine/OMC/Volvo exhaust I installed 4 years ago, for access to the steering actuator that needs to be replaced. I ran the engine on the water hose about 20 min, let it cool...
  11. Lou C

    OK Merc guys got a question about using a 140* stat...

    I'm posting this on the Merc board even though I have the OMC because I feel I'll get more responses and its a generic question. OK I've had the OMC for a long time, and all their engines came with a 160 stat as did most Volvo engines, whereas Merc did use a 140 stat in their older...
  12. Lou C

    Couple of tips for reinstalling a Cobra drive....

    OK for those of you who have Cobras and maintain them yourselves....and this is for the dog clutch models 1986-1993....we know that pulling a drive is usually easy but reinstalling one can be difficult, sometimes it goes right on, sometimes it fights you....so here's what I have found helpful...
  13. Lou C

    Kill Switch now mandatory....take a look at this.....

    Change Is Coming: Mandatory Kill Switch Use - The Hull Truth - Boating and Fishing Forum My boat doesn't have one, so I guess I have to add one....thoughts? We do use it on our little 10' Walker Bay when using the outboard.
  14. Lou C

    When logging on, I get what my MacAfee says is a virus!!!

    What is this? Every so often I will get this when logging on, its something that looks like its prompting you to download the latest version of internet explorer, then the virus protection identifies it as a virus....
  15. Lou C

    Permanent magnet gear reduction starter...

  16. Lou C

    2012 Merc V-6 I/O cat converter exhaust question...

    I've got a friend with a 2012 Merc V6 I/O with the cat converter exhaust. Used in salt water just like out boat, moored approx. 6 month season. Their mechanic is advising replacing the manifolds and elbows as it typically done here with cast iron exhaust every 5-7 years. The cost parts and labor...
  17. Lou C

    Use Antifreeze to winterize? Here's a choice few think of.....

    If you use antifreeze to winterize (and there is as much debate on this point, as there is on motor oils), but let's just say Mercruiser has recommended it for years....for the purpose of reducing corrosion...not freeze protection per se....you always manually drain first...here's another I...
  18. Lou C

    Good vid on re-assembling a V/P SX-M transom assembly....

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y83ud7V8kDM very well explained and detailed, for those who may need to re-do one of these.... might want to make it a sticky....
  19. Lou C

    Anyone ever hear of Red Rhino marine parts?

    I was researching this company because if I have to eventually get another Cobra drive, Crowley marine sells what they call 'new' Cobra drives. I called them and asked who supplies them with the parts that you can't get from BRP any longer and they said Red Rhino. I don't know anything about...
  20. Lou C

    the question of how to replace a solenoid...that got closed....

    The answer is yes you need to remove the starter, which if you have decent access is an easy job and replacing the solenoid is easy as well. I replaced on the starter that is on my boat about 5 years ago, and it still works fine. But before doing all that, you should be checking all the wiring...
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