cobra outdrive problems

j_pete003

Cadet
Joined
May 11, 2009
Messages
14
I took my 1989 180 Four Winns boat to a marina with an engine that wouldnt turn over. He said my engine was blown. So I took the outdrive off and turned the engine over. NOT THE ENGINE!!!! The engine actually started up with a bump of the key. OOPPS. But that isnt the problem. What could have happened inside the outdrive that would keep the engine from turning over?
Blown gears? Is there a solution to this without taking this to the marina again? What should I look for when I pull this apart?
 

Bt Doctur

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Aug 29, 2004
Messages
19,344
Re: cobra outdrive problems

check the oil level and condition first, pull the drain and see what comes out.
If water is present in the drive it`s most likely toast, run low on oil will cause bearing damage or lockup.Splitting the drive is fairly easy to isolate the upper or lower damage
 

j_pete003

Cadet
Joined
May 11, 2009
Messages
14
Re: cobra outdrive problems

The prop shaft turns freely. If that will narrow it down any.
 

imported_TheMan

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Oct 19, 2006
Messages
224
Re: cobra outdrive problems

What about the u-joint turning freely?

I'm not an OMC guy, but the prop shaft means nothing if the outdrive is in neutral. If you can't spin the u-joint, your gears are likely f.ed up.
 

Gary H NC

Fleet Admiral
Joined
Dec 1, 2005
Messages
8,972
Re: cobra outdrive problems

Take the 4 bolts off the top of the drive,pop the cover off and you will see the upper gears..
Look for metal shavings and discoloration on the gears..
 

180shabah

Rear Admiral
Joined
Mar 26, 2005
Messages
4,995
Re: cobra outdrive problems

Take the 4 bolts off the top of the drive,pop the cover off and you will see the upper gears..
Look for metal shavings and discoloration on the gears..

Cobras are notorious for destroying the upper gears - Sad part is, it is totally preventable. The shift cable MUST be adjusted exactly to spec, check it every year and the drive will last just as long as any other.
 
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