SailDrive....thoughts?

maximus53 · #1 (**permalink**) 06-20-2008

I am looking for my first boat and had a 1979 Erickson surveyed today. The overall impression of the survey was that the boat was in decent shape for its age. His major concern was the engine. The boat has an original 2-stroke saildrive. The surveyor was concerned that I would not easily be able to find parts if major repair work was needed in the future. Is this sound advice? I figure the mass knowledge of this wonderful community would definitely have some useful insight.

Thanks in advance!
Max

anderbra · #2 (**permalink**) 06-20-2008

With my limited knowledge, I venture ask:
the engine is two stroke and the propulsion is a saildrive?
I have a 1981 Volvo diesel 2 cylinders coupled to a Saildrive - had no problems so far.
Check the engine make and model and google it, you may find more information on the Net.

sailingdog · #3 (**permalink**) 06-20-2008

If it is an OMC saildrive, run like hell. They've got a pretty bad history and there's a good reason they're out of business.

LakeEscape · #4 (**permalink**) 06-20-2008

More than likely an OMC/Johnson motor. The old SD units had corossion issues, if the zincs were not properly maintained. Where is the boat?

LakeEscape

maximus53 · #5 (**permalink**) 06-20-2008

It is an OMC. I guess the search will continue. How much would it cost to replace? Is adding an outboard a worthwhile option? Corrosion is not a huge issue as I am in the great lakes area.

Faster · #6 (**permalink**) 06-20-2008

The OMC saildrives were not good units, as indicated above. Corrosion of the leg, a tendency to siphon raw water into the block on occasion, and difficulty keeping the ignition system working were typical symptoms. Most boats I know that were so-equipped now have outboards on transom brackets.

Some of these went to the effort to remove the leg, others did not. Bad enough to have to add an unsightly transom outboard system, but to still be dragging the leg around seems silly.

These are 15 HP units, so replacing with a 12 hp diesel w/saildrive (the easiest inboard conversion, probably) would still entail some glass work as the beds will differ, could run you around $10K or more depending on how much work you can do yourself and which engine/drive package you choose.

maximus53 · #7 (**permalink**) 06-20-2008

Thanks for all the feedback so far. What is involved with patching the hole that would be left behind? I am guessing just glass work and paint??

121Guy · #8 (**permalink**) 06-20-2008

Max,

Have you seen this one?

Holland Yacht Sales (Macatawa, MI)

She sits in Holland Michigan at the marina we are at and is owned by a very nice couple. She is very well kept, has always been in fresh water and indoror dtored in winter. I have sailed her and she is very nice given her age. She does not have the saildrive either.

Disclosure: I am not in the industry or have any connection to the sale of this boat. Just want to pass along a well cared for lead.

121 Guy

eMKay · #9 (**permalink**) 06-20-2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by 121Guy

Max,

Have you seen this one?

Holland Yacht Sales (Macatawa, MI)

She sits in Holland Michigan at the marina we are at and is owned by a very nice couple. She is very well kept, has always been in fresh water and indoror dtored in winter. I have sailed her and she is very nice given her age. She does not have the saildrive either.

Disclosure: I am not in the industry or have any connection to the sale of this boat. Just want to pass along a well cared for lead.

121 Guy

Why must you tempt me?

This boat is exactly what I want for my next boat. It's beautiful.

maximus53 · #10 (**permalink**) 06-21-2008

Looks like it may warrant a trip over there......now where would I find some seasoned sailors to help me get it back across the lake?