V-Drive Transmission

[Lucky Penny]

I am not sure if this is the proper fourm for this question, but here goes. I have a chance to aquire a 1977 WINNER 28foot cruiser. she has a 318CID with 'V-Drive" I have experience with I/O's and straight drive set ups, but never had any experience with this transmission. The local shadetree mech's and a few pro's keep giving me a mix of don't go near it, to it's agreat deal.

for the Gru's.......a great deal or keep away...

 

[JCF350]

Re: V-Drive Transmission

Remote V-drives give the biggest problem with alignment/mounting issues (as in coming loose). Maintenance problem there.

Integral V-drives (bolted to the transmission) don't have this issue.

Only real failures were the ones that were overpowered or lack of maintenance.

 

[rodbolt]

Re: V-Drive Transmission

with the above noted issues, we rarely have anymore problems with the V drive as opposed to a down angle or a stright drive, seals can still leak and things still break on 30 year old equipment. I do find the maint is usually neglected more on V drives as accessbility is usually inadequate.
my biggest concern will be that 318, while most engine parts are avalible the accessories are getting harder and harder to find for old chysler stuff as chysler pulled out of the marine market in the early 80's. possibly sooner.
however if its been maintained usually the packge works, who made the V drive and who marinized the chysler ?