280 or SP can they replace one another?

[WestCoastPete]

I just a purchased a 1980 Bayliner Contessa Flybridge 2850. It has a single Volvo Penta GM 350 Block casting number 14010207. I don't know much about the Volvo outdrives but I was told it was a 280. The OD has a problem where it does not lock in place, while in reverse and drive pulls out of the water when rpm is higher than idle. The upper unit cover is also missing where the shift linkage is exposed to the water. I bought a used Volvo 280 that was mated to a GM V8. The person that told me I had a 280 may be mistaken because the unit looks more like the SP model. The top cover is flush with upper unit where the linkage cover mounts. The 280's top cover extends rearward a couple of inches.. The part number on the OD on the boat is 875672 and the part number of the used 280 I purchased is 380678. My questions is, Will the 280 mount right inplace of my existing SP outdrive? and is there anything else I should be aware of. I have a picture of the drive still in water and the used 280 replacement unit. I thought I had attached the pictures but do not see them on the post. Any help is appreciated.

 

[Don S]

Re: 280 or SP can they replace one another?

Your first (very dark) picture is an SP drive, the second picture with a piece of the transom sitting on tires is a 280.
The 280 will not bolt up to the SP transom shield.

 

[WestCoastPete]

Re: 280 or SP can they replace one another?

Thanks a bunch Don. Time to put the 280 up for sale. It seems that the SP are not as common as the 280 and may be harder to find parts for.