Hello, I have a 1986 Wellcraft Elan XL 19.5 ft. It has a 4.3L Merc 205HP(4 barrel) With Alpha I.
I bought this project boat last year. I've rebuilt engine, replaced coupler and replaced some upholstery. We've finally been able to use the boat on a regular basis but last weekend I hit a rock and tore up the lower unit on the Alpha I Gen I out drive. The Stainless steel prop has a large dent, most of the skeg was broken off, the prop shaft is bent and the top of the drive shaft is twisted off.
Even though is sounds like this boat has seen allot of use the hour meter reads 210 hrs. The engine was rebuilt because the water pump failed and the engine was run hot. A hole was found in the top of one of the pistons. Going through engine we saw little wear so I tend to believe the hour meter.
Any way, I need to replace the lower unit and was wondering if I should replace the upper as well. I hate to spend the money if I don't need to but I don't know how to evaluate the condition of the upper unit. I Know that when the drive was trimmed all the way up (trailering) and engine is run (like in the driveway with garden hose and muffs) I would hear some noise.
Any suggestions, Thanks, Brian
I bought this project boat last year. I've rebuilt engine, replaced coupler and replaced some upholstery. We've finally been able to use the boat on a regular basis but last weekend I hit a rock and tore up the lower unit on the Alpha I Gen I out drive. The Stainless steel prop has a large dent, most of the skeg was broken off, the prop shaft is bent and the top of the drive shaft is twisted off.
Even though is sounds like this boat has seen allot of use the hour meter reads 210 hrs. The engine was rebuilt because the water pump failed and the engine was run hot. A hole was found in the top of one of the pistons. Going through engine we saw little wear so I tend to believe the hour meter.
Any way, I need to replace the lower unit and was wondering if I should replace the upper as well. I hate to spend the money if I don't need to but I don't know how to evaluate the condition of the upper unit. I Know that when the drive was trimmed all the way up (trailering) and engine is run (like in the driveway with garden hose and muffs) I would hear some noise.
Any suggestions, Thanks, Brian
Comment