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1988 OMC Cobra 3.0L

J

Jhingerkid

New member
Hi there, I have a 1988 Four Winns 160 Freedom with an OMC Cobra 3.0L inboard motor. Got it as a gift from my parents as it was our family boat, but I don't know much of anything about repairing them or diagnosing. The boat ran fine when I got it, however within about 5 minutes of running the engine started to lose power intermittently before finally shutting off entirely. I couldn't get it to start back up, but was lucky enough that another boater came by to tow us back to the dock. Prior to this, it hadn't run for about two years (though it ran fine when using water muffs and testing it out in my street)

I gave a couple turns of the key while at the dock; it seems that I can turn it once and the motor will turn over, but not quite make it there. If I turn the key again I'll hear one audible click, and then what sounds like some kind of electric motor whirring (no motor turning over).

I'd like to begin the journey of learning how to DIY and work on it myself as it is a family boat and I have good memories with it; I have a short list of things to check first before asking a boat shop down the street for some help in diagnosing it. Figured it would be good to ask here if this sounds familiar or what the likely culprit could be?

Thank you for any advice or help!
 
Sounds like the starter gear is not engaging with the flywheel, but that does not account for the motor dying, which could be a lot of things.
There are some really good guys on this forum who can steer you in the right direction.
 
Ayuh,...... Is the battery fully charged,.??
Has the fuel filter been changed,..??
Does the gas, still smell like gasoline,..??
 
Those Four Winns were decent boats but the wiring is not so great, on mine I long ago changed all the battery cables, they were automotive junk.
You might have a weak battery, corroded cables, etc. Also the engines of that era had points distributors, these are actually quite reliable but they do require maintenance, like changing the points and condenser every 4-6 seasons or so. Eventually the starters just wear out, of if you had a lot of water in the bilge they get internally corroded, might need a new one if the battery and cables are good. I put a dual battery system in mine with a pair of Dual Purpose Gp 27 batteries. Keep in mind a weak battery can further weaken a starter, and conversely a worn-out starter can kill a good battery. I change batteries about every 7 seasons, and as soon as the starter acts up I get a new one (marine starter ONLY). I like ARCO starters and alternators.
 
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