How much does stern drive repair and reinstall cost?

Question

I'm sure that it varies a lot depending on what's needed. I'm just looking for a range. I'm looking at buying a 19 year-old bow rider with an OMC outdrive that looks to be in good condition. It was stored inside. Any experience?

Answer 1

OMC doesn't make out-drives any more.   Many dealers in my area don't want to work on them.  Unless you are getting a super bargain,  you may be better off finding a boat with a Merc-Cruiser drive.  In any case, I would have a reputable mechanic check it out before buying a used rig.

Answer 2

I would arrange for the owner or seller of the boat take you for a short ride on the water.  If there is anything wrong with the boat it should become apparent fairly quickly.  Question any sounds that seem strange.  The only thing you should hear is the sound of the engine running and the gears engaging.  Have them lift the drive and visually inspect the ball gears.  If there is any wear, you will probably want to reconsider buying the boat.  Wear is easy to spot, the gears should have round nubs.  If there are any flat spots, then they need to be replaced.  If you do end up buying it, take it to a shop and have the drive oil changed.  It shouldn't cost much.  I am a marine mechanic on Lake Shasta, in California, and many of our moorage customers have these outdrives on there boats and run them with few if any problems.  We even run them on a few of our rental houseboats, with very few problems.  If there doesn't seem to be any damage to the case, then the only thing you will probably need to worry about is the impeller and the shift cable.  The impellers can still be found with a little searching, but cables are generally in short supply.  On private boats that don't see much use, though, these usually aren't an issue.

Answer 3

You can buy a rebuilt one for about $2500. Install it yourself or pay someone to do it would be extra..