1991 model OMC 3.0,...Should I stay away?

[3car]

I am looking at a 1991 model bowrider with a 3.0 OMC sterndrive. I know absolutely nothing about this combination, but I do know that there are parts availibility issues with some OMC cobra I/O's.

Is this motor/drive a decent reliable unit? What is the horsepower?

 

[Gary H NC]

Re: 1991 model OMC 3.0,...Should I stay away?

The Cobra was a good drive and parts can still be found,BUT i would stay away from it.The 3.0 is probably way under powered for that boat anyway.
To many good used Merc and Volvo powered boats to be found...
The Cobra parts are very expensive and its real hard to find any place that works on them..

 

[Alumarine]

Re: 1991 model OMC 3.0,...Should I stay away?

The 3.0 is probably way under powered for that boat anyway.

I would think it would depend on the size of the boat.

The 3.0 in mine is just fine.

 

[3car]

Re: 1991 model OMC 3.0,...Should I stay away?

I would think it would depend on the size of the boat.

The 3.0 in mine is just fine.

its a 16.5" bowrider. baby boat.

 

[Gary H NC]

Re: 1991 model OMC 3.0,...Should I stay away?

I have owned Cobras before and would not buy another one.Too many things to go wrong and parts are getting harder to find.
And yes the 3.0 would be ok in that size boat i guess.
I used to have a 19ft with the 3.0 and a Stringer drive.What a dog that was!

 

[Don S]

Re: 1991 model OMC 3.0,...Should I stay away?

The only problem with the OMC Cobra sterndrives is that OMC doesn't exist anymore, and hasn't for about 10 years now.
Parts for the 140 and the drive are out there in aftermarket, but if you have to have it worked on by a pro, they may be hard to find.
So, if you are planning on doing all your own wrenching (except for major outdrive repair) and you decide to get the OEM service manuals for that engine and drive, then you will probably be happy with it.
But if you expect to find service personel capable of fixing it........ forget it. Unless you are real lucky.
Personally, I would avoid it and look for something with Merc or Volvo in the same years. The parts and service are available.