1967 Chris Craft Corsair 17

[kcadwal]

I recently acquired ( was given for moving) a 1967 Chris Craft 17' runabout. It is powered by a Buick "odd-fire" V-6 with a OMC outdrive. Engine and drive unit are in questionable condition. I'm not keen on OMC outdrives. Any suggestions about a conversion ? The hull and trailer are in good shape.
Thanks for any suggestions.
Kc

[Steve Ericsson]

By questionable, do you mean not running? I'd run it as it if it is operable and worry about converting it when the time comes. Conversions aren't usually very fun!

[kcadwal]

I have since done more work on the boat and decided to try and keep it original. Its an excellent hull and the workmanship is very good. Unfortunately today I found the exhaust manifolds(heat exchangers) are in poor condition. I would like to find a source to replace them. I believe the block is a 225 Buick V-6. I've looked some on the internet without any success so far. After some consideration I agree with you about the re-fit power wise.
Thanks for your reply.
Kc

[Steve Ericsson]

Excellent!! Good luck in your search, that stuff can be difficult to find.

[Bodofish]

Those engines were marketed under the Dauntless and Evirude to name just a few. A very popular engine in the late 60's through the 80's. Chris Craft used them as a stock offering but you probably already know that. They ended up in a lot of fishing boats under the Dauntless badge and maybe Crusader.... Anyways:
http://www.marinemanifold.com/osco/osco47.aspx

[kcadwal]

Thank you Bodofish. I'm still looking. As I get deeper in I have found that the block is cracked and bothe exhaust manifolds have cracks. So I'm now looking for manifolds and a block. On the plus side I have learned that the OMC drive is somewhat universal, in that it will accept a small block Chevrolet. This may be easier to find although the weight may cause problems. Anyway thanks again.
Kc