SmittyDFW1 wrote:
I did find out that the engine in it is a Mercruiser Chevy 350sb with 260 hp. The engine looks to be in good shape with good oil in it, hoses and clamps are all newish. The gasoline smelled like it hadn't gone south yet too.
(other than the cracked vinyl) That's a nice looking one!
If you don't know how long the gas has been in there, You might want to drain it using a siphon hose through the gage-sender hole.
It's under the back seat. 6 screws and you can remove it. Get a new sender gasket from West Marine or other marine store. Be careful with the screws though. Some of the kits use a different thread pitch from what you have.
Get some 3/4" clear vinyl hose that's long enough so you don't have to be afraid of getting fuel in your mouth (you can see it coming!!)
If you put a ball valve on the end you can pre-fill the hose to make it easier to start the siphon.
Tip the bow up and use the hose as a "vacuum cleaner" to remove and water or other debris in the tank.
I would also check/replace the anti-siphon valve and definitely replace the fuel filter. Also carefully check the flexible (marine) fuel line from the tank to the fuel filter. If it even hints of cracks replace it.
The fuel line from the pump to the carb should be stainless steel.
Carefully check the yellow hose from the fuel pump to the carburetor. (that's the hose that will tell you if the fuel pump is leaking fuel)
Expect boat to run approx 50 mph at WOT and around 4800 RPM.
You'll LOVE that Liberator!
Cheers,
Rick