Volvo Penta 280 outdrives

[woodstockwizzar]

I just bought another boat with twin 280 penta outdrives, they work great until I reach 2k rpm at which time the engines race and I loose propulsion. I have narrowed it down to the cone clutches. the fluid may be low I won't be able to check it untill I have it hauled out because the uppers are under water unless I raise them. Could them being low on fluid cause this or are the clutches just worn out and if so how hard is it to adjust/ repair/ replace them....................Thanx John

[gonzo]

If the fluid was low, it would stick in gear. They are probably worn. In that case the cups in the gears probably are too.

[woodstockwizzar]

how hard is it to repair/replace them and what would a normal price be? Can they be repaired or do they have to be replaced?

[Steve H]

I think that it is unlikely that both drives would fail at the same time. I would suspect something with the props or fouled bottom.

Steve Hixson

[gonzo]

Rereading the original post, I see that both drives do the same. I agree it is unlikely, but possible, that both clutches failed at the same time. However it may happen. Rebuilding a Volvo drive requires the proper tools and training. The tools are about $1200.00 for the set. Sometimes the clutch and gear cups are scored and can be lapped with valve compound. To determine that the upper unit needs to come apart.

[woodstockwizzar]

Rereading the original post, I see that both drives do the same. I agree it is unlikely, but possible, that both clutches failed at the same time. However it may happen. Rebuilding a Volvo drive requires the proper tools and training. The tools are about $1200.00 for the set. Sometimes the clutch and gear cups are scored and can be lapped with valve compound. To determine that the upper unit needs to come apart.
I just bought the boat ahd the previous owner had the same problem , but no one ever told him about the cone clutches. I had the props vhecked and they are fine , as well as, the botom paint. I would like to have an average price to prepare for it and to know that I'm not getting ripped off.........again thanx for all of your assistance here. One opinion of the prop slippage was cavitation due to air getting into the prop, but I have my doubts.

[eduardonin]

I had the same problem with an alone helix, and it was the rubber of the helix that had broken.
Probably have the same problem, and on having trumped a helix other one is overloaded with effort and also it fails.
Sorry about the english. ;) :)
HTH
Greats.