OMC sterndrive

nautiduck · 05-28-2008, 01:30 PM

I have questions about OMC I/Os like the one in the picture. How reliable are they. Do the big rubber seals around them have a tendency to leak and what about the trim mechanism being geared. Every I/O I have had has been a Merc I have always been told they are the best of the bunch then Volvo and to stay away from OMC. Is this standard school of thought or just typical ford vs chevy stuff. Any info would be appreciated. I am looking to buy a used boat but am leary of systems Im not familiar with. Also what is the MPG comparison between I/O vs outboard with same hp ratings? It will most likely be a 2cycle as the budget will not allow a newer 4 cycle.

nautiduck · 05-28-2008, 01:38 PM

forgot the pic

reel retreat · 05-28-2008, 06:40 PM

stay away from the old omc drives nothing but trouble just my opinion

cpmarine · 06-01-2008, 10:46 PM

I have to agree, stay away from that outdrive. The boots do leak, the outdrives and intermediate housings were not good when they were still being made, which was around 30 years ago. Close the transom and put an outboard or a Mercruiser in it is the only good option.

05-28-2008, 01:30 PM	#1
nautiduck Stop staring at my Avatar. Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Rock Hill SC (Charlotte) Posts: 440 Credits: 1,786.5 Best Catch: Duckie	OMC sterndrive I have questions about OMC I/Os like the one in the picture. How reliable are they. Do the big rubber seals around them have a tendency to leak and what about the trim mechanism being geared. Every I/O I have had has been a Merc I have always been told they are the best of the bunch then Volvo and to stay away from OMC. Is this standard school of thought or just typical ford vs chevy stuff. Any info would be appreciated. I am looking to buy a used boat but am leary of systems Im not familiar with. Also what is the MPG comparison between I/O vs outboard with same hp ratings? It will most likely be a 2cycle as the budget will not allow a newer 4 cycle. Last edited by nautiduck; 05-28-2008 at 01:33 PM.

Thread Tools
Show Printable Version Email this Page
Display Modes
Linear Mode Switch to Hybrid Mode Switch to Threaded Mode

05-28-2008, 06:40 PM	#3
reel retreat backlash king Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: virginia Posts: 15 Credits: 1,337.1 Boat: 250 wellcraft coastal	stay away from the old omc drives nothing but trouble just my opinion

06-01-2008, 10:46 PM	#4
cpmarine Sail boats suck Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: South Jersey Posts: 6 Credits: 1,213.1 Occupation: Boat Transport and Repairs	I have to agree, stay away from that outdrive. The boots do leak, the outdrives and intermediate housings were not good when they were still being made, which was around 30 years ago. Close the transom and put an outboard or a Mercruiser in it is the only good option.