OMC Zephyr Saildrive Queries

[D. Casey]

I'm new to this site but I have the feeling you've all heard sad saildrive stories before. My O'Day 28 is equipped with an OMC Zephyr Saildrive, a not very reliable, strong or enviro-friendly power source. Among other issues is finding parts. Has anyone had to replace the large rubber engine bed gasket or found a way to repair leaks in this part? If you know where parts for this engine can be found, please let me know. As long as we're talking about this engine, and possibly having to remove it, has anyone replaced theirs with a more reliable source like a Saildrive 280 (@salidrive280.com) or a Yanmar with saildrive unit? Obvious unwise economics aside, what do you all think about going through the cockpit sole to drag the engine out?

 

[Ben Bishop]

Get rid of it

I had one in my ericson 25 and it never did get going and finding parts was a nightmare. I had it removed professionally and replaced it with a honda 9.9 hung off the back. Never regreted that move. We just glassed over the hole. Those things are way out of date. Move on.

 

[Mike Maculley]

Saildrive

I've just R&R'd my saildrive for a leak in the same place. The rubber ring is a wild goose chase...a liberal dose of life caulk or other polysulfide sealant is your best bet...and I mean liberal! Put a large bead oround the rubber ring on both sides, and dont forget to do the inner flange...It stopped the leak on mine. As for pulling it out, painkillers work wonders on the back the day after...wait till you put it back in!!! I've got pics if you wanna see but they are too big to send here

 

[Jim Cook]

Consider a Volvo...

My 1974 O'Day 27 has the original 13hp VolvoPenta MD7A with 110S saildrive. I have never had a problem with it. As for removal, my engine can pull straight up through the companionway. Before I rip anything up, I would prefer to dismantle the engine and keep the hull structure intact.

 

[D. Casey]

Yanking On Saildrives

Thanks all for the advice, especially Mike, with direct experience with the leaking gasket. I'd like to see those pictures as I really can't figure out how to this without doing serious damage to the boat and me. If you would, please e-mail them to me at dcasey0830@msn.com. And thanks again.