Four Wins with 1990 (or 1989?) OMC Cobra 2.3L

[aJohn79]

I just purchased a used 17' Four Wins with the above engine. I have couple questions, and seek recommendations:
- Can I convert the ignition to electronic and is it worth it?
- When I suddenly hit the gas the engine stalls. Sounds like the accelerator pump in the carburetor. If it is, can I fix this with a carburetor kit? where can I find one?
- What is the maximum recommended RPM to run the engine at?
- Any improvements that can be done to the engine to increase performance and/or durability and/or economy?
- Any other advice and/or experience with this boat and/or engine

Thank in advance!

 

[marunr]

Re: Four Wins with 1990 (or 1989?) OMC Cobra 2.3L

Hi,
I have a 1988 2.3l.
1) I've briefly looked in to a pertronix ignition but I didn't see anything right off. I haven't been that interested in changing it so I'm not sure what's available.
2) You should be able to get a kit at Napa with the number from the carb.
3) The max RPMs according to my manual is 5200, though that seems a little scary to me. I've had mine since it was new and have very rarely pushed it that hard.
4) I've found this engine to be extremely economical and smooth running. Is this your first I/O? If so, check the exhaust manifold and riser. Mine does ok for 10 years in fresh water (summer use only) but I hear the pro's say 2 years is tops in salt water. This is an expensive part for this engine.
5) Last thing. Here is a website all OMC Cobra owners should read and print out. You should probably perform this shift cable adjustment right away if the measurements don't match the specs. Good luck!
http://www.hastings.org/~stuart/cobra/

You'll have to copy and paste the link.

 

[sker crunch]

Re: Four Wins with 1990 (or 1989?) OMC Cobra 2.3L

www.hastings.org/~stuart/cobra/