V-drive noise in a 1992 Excel

[youknowthiscraig]

I just bought a 1992 Nautique Excel V-drive with low hours. The boat runs great but the v-drive makes a clanking at lower speeds. I seem to remember my other nautique doing the same. I hear those v-drives are bulletproof...is that true. I got a good price on the boat and I am not scared to put some money into it...even if that involves rebuilding the v-drive. Im just trying to figure out whether I need to repair anything. Has anyone ever taken the top off that v-drive to look for damage?


Also, what other repairs can I anticipate with that boat. I plan on switching the ignition to a normal distributor. Is the $500 Skidim kit really the only option. Seems like a lot for a distributor...or is that just what it costs.


Anyway, any advice would be appreciated. The boat looks really serviceable, and its the boat I want for the next 20 years, so Im not afraid of putting some money into it. Thanks for your time.

[2001SAN]

Hi,

I was having a similar problem in my 2001 Super Air. Any research I did pointed towards something being out of alignment. Maybe the coupler is loose or a worn cutlass bearing. Several websites relating to trasnmission 'gear clatter' at low rpm suggested something along these lines. I left my boat in to be looked at and water was found in the oil so that has become my new issue. Haven't solved the other.

Let me know if you find a solution.

D.

[1StopJeff]

Craig,

did you check the fluid in the V-drive? I recently purchased a '91 Nautique Excel and the V-drive is smooth and quite. I would first check the fluid level and if it is full and smells normal (doesn't smell burnt like it has been over-heated) then drain it and look for material in the fluid. I would also check all maiting and mounting bolts. I used to be a boat mechanic in the mid-80's and these V-drives haven't really changed at all in 30 years. They are pretty much bullet proof.

Good Luck and let us know what you find. Where in CA are you? I am near Sac. Let's see some pics.