Newbie owner with a 1978 srv220 cuddy cabin here

[randomJo]

Hello, fellow owners!
I feel proud to now be "one of you" since my family and I purchased a 1978 SRV220CC in fair shape for a more than fair price (for German COVID circumstances, that is).

Since then we already did a lot of detective work around it, since there is no documentation from the previous owner. It took us a while, but we finally nailed it down that the OMC 240 engine is actually a Ford 351 small block V8 with 240hp and an OMC Stringer 800 outdrive with mechanical shifting (instead of the electric shift).
I bet I'll have a lot of questions around the boat and the engine in the future, but maybe you can already help me out with some absolutely basic info... what type of oil should we use for the engine (I think I found the right one for the outdrive, but maybe you can tell me this one too?
Also, we found a crack in one of the exhaust manifolds, I wonder if it's generally advisable to have that welded or if we have to replace the entire manifold?

Cheers,

Jo

 

[JimG]

Usually a straight 30-40 weight oil. If a straight weight is not available a 15W30 of 15W40 is good. Outdrive typically use straight 80-90 weight gear oil. Synthetics are fine also.
If the boat was used in salt water you may want to replace both manifolds... difficult to weld cast iron.

Some reading for you:
http://www.clubsearay.com/index.php?threads/220-srv-forum.81731/

Best of luck and welcome to CSR!

 

[randomJo]

Hey Jim,

thanks for the info, the link and the welcome!
Yeah, those manifolds... tricky one. the port one actually looks fine, but the starboard manifold already has a nasty crack. It's mostly been used in fresh water for all we know, but then again, the history of the boat is virtually untraceable.

Difficult thing here is, that finding a replacement manifold appears to be impossible as well. Some shops still list the part number alright, but obviously no one has them in stock. So I suppose I have to find someone who is well versed in welding....

Cheers,

Jo

 

[Gofirstclass]

I ain't no stankin' mekanyik so I can't help you with the questions you asked, but I can extend my hand and welcome you and your family to CSR!

 

[randomJo]

Thanks Gofirstclass, much appreciated!
And trust me, the family and I are certainly happy.