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Boat Repair/Opinion of a 76 Century Inboard

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Expert: Jeff Grigg - 1/23/2008


Question
I am looking at a 1976 Century Inboard with a big Chrysler and a V-Drive.  It was rebuilt about 8 years, but the owner died and didn't use it much.  He willed it to his brother, but he never used it. So, it is for sale.  Overall, it looks decent for a 1976.  Is there anything to worry about on a boat like this in terms of things that go bad from not being used, dried up seals, etc.  How hard is V-Drive to work on?

Answer
First of all I am not an expert on V drives by any stretch of the imagination.
If you are interested in the boat I would make arrangements to have a local technician, that knows the Chrysler and the drives throughly examine the boat.
I haven't seen a Chrysler used in years in a boat, in fact I know of a few that were pulled out specifically to go into classic cars! I would imagine parts for the engine and drive could be hard to find and costly.
This is one of those times where an apparent bargain my be a money pit. But then again it may be a really great boat that with some updating could give years of trouble free use.
I would go into this deal with my eyes wide open and carefully weight the options.
Jeff

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Jeff Grigg

Expertise

Can help with most any question related to outboards, high performance, hull repair, rigging, if it floats and uses a motor. From a 9.9 on a aluminum boat to DFI two strokes. Outboard motors are my specialty. I can help with some I/O questions as well. Ratings are the only way we know if we are helping. If you are pleased with the help, please rate us. 20% don't bother reading my answers! If you are not going to read the follow up then why ask? Keep in mind we do this at no charge and are not paid. We do it to help you!

Experience

32 years in the marine business. Own a service facility, in coastal South Carolina certified Master Tech by Johnson/Evinrude, certified Mercury/Force, Tohatsu/Nissan. Former technical director for DMI Pistons. 30 year racing career including 3 APBA Formula V National Championships

Organizations
AMTECH, APBA

Publications Written For
Boat & Motor Dealer, Car Classics, Custom Vans (tech articles), Miami News, powerboat racing column

Awards and Honors
Certified Master Technician Johnson/Evinrude

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