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Thread: OLDS 455 general info Q.

  1. #1
    scooter38
    Hello
    Does anyone know of where to find SPEC information
    about the Olds 455 with the berkeley Jet?
    I have a line on a ABC American 18' from 1973
    which has a OLds 455 with a berkeley jet. Appears to be in
    good shape, but I am new to jet boats so
    I'm not sure what to look for to determine if it is mechanically
    in decent shape.
    I'm trying to find information about this setup, pro's cons, etc
    before I purchase.
    thanks
    -Scooter

  2. #2
    El Prosecutor
    Depends on what you want. In general Olds the Olds is a reliable motor, but they have oil return problems when run unmodified at WOT for very long (more than 30 seconds or so). Essentially they are famous for pumping all the oil to the top end. loosing oil pressure and cratering the lower end.
    If you are looking for a family boat to ski and tube with I wouldn't hesitate at all to buy an Olds. If you want to go 70+ or do a lot of performance improvements it is more practical to go with a BBC.
    Do a search for "oiling problems" on this forum, or go to www.realoldspower.com and search the "Olds powered boats" forum. You will find out all about the oiling issue and how to fix it.
    That said, there are some awesome and fast Olds powered jets out there, it just takes more work and $$.

  3. #3
    73WriedtCustom
    I found a manual here http://www.repairmanual.com/marine/72/476 I haven't ordered it yet though.

  4. #4
    Junior Member
    Join Date
    Dec 2010
    Posts
    480
    Where are you located??

  5. #5
    scooter38
    Spokane WA

  6. #6
    scooter38
    thanks
    I ordered the manual.
    letcha know how it is once it arrives
    ...only 25 bucks
    -D

  7. #7
    malcolm
    Hey a local! Sort of... :boxed:
    The only way to tell about that boat is to take some pics of it and post 'em up for the masses to comment on. That way you can find out what it was or wasn't a copy of and maybe what it's capable of speed wise. Don't buy the boat thinking the engine and jet will last a long time, most times they won't. The Berkeley pump is the most popular so that's good, the Olds on the other hand is a drawback. Depending on what's been done to it (build and treatment) it could be on borrowed time already.
    What are they asking for it?

  8. #8
    scooter38
    they want $4200.
    It's cheap fun. I really don't care too much for all out speed, I'm just wanting to get on the water. Always liked the old Apollo style boats.
    If it fails.. I'll fix it.
    I don't know much about the Olds, I was just trying to
    out if there are some "visual" signs of bad news before I
    decide to buy it.
    -D

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