New to me 3.8L OMC w/Stringer 800 - What should I check/replace before launch?

[caveman_b]

Just acquired a 1982 Beachcraft 180S with a 3.8L OMC and Stringer 800 (checked model numbers, etc). I did not test the boat on the water before purchase (yes, I know...lol). It has a few issues.

#1 - starting/fuel issue
#2 - tilt issue - not coming back up
#3 - screw holes in transom

#1 - Fuel/Start
I can start the boat on starting fluid/fuel direct to carb but I don't think I am getting fuel from tank (don't see any squiring into the carb). What can I do to troubleshoot this thing?

I also don't see a fuel filter on this line anywhere. Where should I put a filter? After pump or before (direct after tank)? I don't want to cut steel line.

#2 - Tilt
Tilt doesn't go back up. I found a link to a thread about cleaning up the tilt and re-greasing. I plan to give that a shot.

#3 - screw holes
I guess the previous owner tried replacing the swim platforms on the rear and left a bunch of screw holes where the old hardware was. It looks like they are siliconed. What is the best method to fix/patch these? I am not too concerned about aesthetics at this point as I am hoping to use this boat to learn/practice some fiberglass repair, painting, etc.

Pre-Launch:

I plan on changing the engine oil and outdrive lube prior to launch.

What else should I check/replace before I get to the lake and sink this thing? Impeller, etc?

Thanks!

 

[GA_Boater]

Welcome aboard.

I guess you should get the motor running on gas as the first pre-launch step. :smile:

Does the fuel tank have gas or gunk in it? Filter should go between the tank and motor to protect the fuel pump. Parts for this motor and drive are hard to come by.

After it's running, then do the oil/lube/impeller change after the tilt is fixed.

The screw holes would be the last thing on my list.

 

[Scott Danforth]

before you even think of putting the boat in the water

get the fuel system corrected. hook a garden hose up to the drive (should be a hose port on one of the trunion caps).

once the fuel system is corrected, do an ignition service

check the boat structure - stringers, mounts, etc. for rot. a 37 year old boat is almost guaranteed to have rot somewhere

get your tilt and trim working

service the outdrive. check the ball gears (replace as needed), the tru-course steering, the exhaust grommet, etc. check gear lube, and replace the raw water impeller.

once you do all the maintenance above, then work on the trailer. then put the boat in the water.

 

[harringtondav]

As I recall the Stringer's tilt is driven by an electric motor that powers a worm gear drive on the port side of the outdrive. If there are worn parts in the worm gearbox, they could cause binding. A quick diagnostic check would be removing the tilt motor from the inside of the transom and see if it turns both directions with the tilt switch. If it does, remove the cover on the worm drive and look for worn or loose parts. If the motor doesn't turn in both or either direction, trace the wiring. A voltmeter is a must here.

 

[wrench 3]

You had better check the condition of the big bellows that fits all around between the drive and the transom.
The electric motor that lifts the drive were notoriously weak. They have a hammer blow coupling between the motor and the worm shaft so that the motor can get a running start at the gears. If the spring is broken in the coupling or the coupling is stuck it won't lift the drive.

 

[Redrig]

#1 - sounds like your carb needs full rebuild , the accelerator pump sounds shot .
#2 - this could be as simple as a bad solenoid or bad tilt motor , could be as bad as binding internally .

The drive should definitely be pulled and everything greased and new impeller at a minimum in my opinion , at this point it doesn't even sound like you know if it shifts properly or not.

Either way - you are a ways off from launching that thing and having a fun day of boating, you need to get the proper manual and go through all of the systems .

Good luck

 

[Keyboardman]

Sea Tow insurance.

 

[caveman_b]

Yes. Very much down with that. After being out in Galveston Bay and needing a jump in the middle of the night on a 36' Hunter... For a cool $1000.