Hello all, I'm recently new to iboats, lots of information I've gathered so far though, so looks to be a good site. I just wanted to get some of the OMC guys opinions on where I should start with this "project". I recently aquired a 1983 Tri-Sonic (last year made I beleive) 17' V-hull, open bow. I think it is a Victory model? I haven't been able to find much info on these boats through web searching, but I did find out that 83' was their last year. Anyway, it has the 2.5 Chevrolet inline 4 cylinder, model # 252FTHROTR, serial #J760321, outdrive model #982740 with serial # J312858. I beleive this is a Stringer 400 series from what I've read so far. The engine runs great, but will not shift into drive or reverse, and the trim is non-operational. I picked the boat and the trailer up for free 
(pics attached), because the owner was getting a new boat, and needed to get this one off his lift dock. The boat is very sturdy, good floors, hull, interior, etc. just a little dirty. So, starting with the outdrive, which steps should I take first, to determine if the problem is in the upper or lower case, and where to go from there. I've read on replacing the tilt motor on these, so I've got that down, but where should I look first for any other drive issues? I did notice the ball gears are worn pretty well, so replacing them for sure then I would guess a manual is in order, as most people on here have stated. Then draining the oil, looking for water, and/or shiny metal shavings. If none of the above, what next? Thanks for your help/opinions.
(pics attached), because the owner was getting a new boat, and needed to get this one off his lift dock. The boat is very sturdy, good floors, hull, interior, etc. just a little dirty. So, starting with the outdrive, which steps should I take first, to determine if the problem is in the upper or lower case, and where to go from there. I've read on replacing the tilt motor on these, so I've got that down, but where should I look first for any other drive issues? I did notice the ball gears are worn pretty well, so replacing them for sure then I would guess a manual is in order, as most people on here have stated. Then draining the oil, looking for water, and/or shiny metal shavings. If none of the above, what next? Thanks for your help/opinions.
