To fix or not to fix, that is the question?

THEFERMANATOR · #1 01-07-2007, 01:10 AM

I'm at a point now with my other projects now that I got a chance to check the V over better. I got the engine running, but only if I held it over about 2500 RPM's. So I dug into it deeper and checked all of the systems out. Turns out the previous rebuilder of the engine put standard pistons in a .020 over block. Doesn't allow for very good intake vacuum if the piston can't seal the ports off. So I pulled the powerhead tonight and got it apart. It didn't end there. The center main is also bad. It got put back in with the outer race broken(it was in 3 pieces not 2 >:( ). Didn't hurt the crank, and the cylinders are good enough to be run without boring. And the steering is very stiff due to lack of greasing the steering. Theses are the biggy's.

So should I invest the $450-550(this being if I can fix the steering without any money investment) to patch this thing back together or not? It's an 83 1.6L sea-drive with 115 carbs on it. As many here know, I got the boat pretty right. But this old sea-drive could become a real money pit, espescially considering sea-drives are not in high demand anymore. I haven't even gotten to sea-trial this thing yet to see how the V-20's ride. I know that I've heard that they are excellent for a 20 footer, but I've yet to find out for myself yet.

Airslot · #2 01-07-2007, 01:32 AM

If you commit to fixing it, you may as well plan on running it. That sea-drive is worth more in parts than as a whole IMHO.

Airslot

msbhammer · #3 01-07-2007, 01:59 AM

The cost of a bracket and used motor will be alot more then 500 bucks. Put the cash out, fix the sea drive and play with it for a season. If you fall in love with the V, maybe convert over to the bracket. Or stick it on E-Bay at no reserve. ;D ;D ;D ;D

phatdaddy · #4 01-07-2007, 03:06 AM

I agree with Hammer, it would be a shame if you re-bracket & repower and don't like the hull performance. You should be able to get your money back if all you have is $1000.00 in it.

THEFERMANATOR · #5 01-07-2007, 03:12 AM

Well I guess I will finish making up my mind tommorrow. Went back up tonight and checked the gear oil, THERE'S SOME GOOD NEWS >:(! How do you like your milk, rotten and the consistency of large curd cottage cheese ????

But there is still another option. The 85 V-20 I looked at has the re-inforced sea-drive transom and his engine is bad as well. I'm thinking maybe I could fix this one and see if I could talk him into swapping hulls and try get him for the $500 in parts. A running one for a non running one, think he'll go for it?