2001 226 8.1VP GSI w/ DP

[cm2288]

I just purchased a 2001 226 with an 8.1VP GSI w/ DP. It runs extremely well and has 542hrs on the engine. One thing I noticed though is that the throttle lever catches sometimes and get stuck for a second between F/N/R. The cable itself seems smooth I just have to jiggle the lever a little and it will catch the gear after a few seconds. This has made it difficult docking and putting on the trailer. Also noticed the steering seems a little harder when at trolling speeds again making it hard to maneuver at the dock and when putting back on the trailer. The previous owner said he just replaced the power steering pump. The boat seems to be idling strong at 750RPM and when putting it in forward will move fairly quick. Just a few observations on my first outing. Maybe this is normal going from and outboard tritoon to a I/O ski boat.

[AsLan7]

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So glad you found us cm2…..

Had similar issues and replaced the shifter and steering cables. The grease will tend to solidify in them when they are that old. Smooth as silk afterwards.

Any pics?

And welcome aboard mate.
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[cm2288]

Thanks for the advise I will start with that. Shouldn’t be too hard of a fix just need to figure out correct part #s if anyone has those handy. I was told they only made 4 of these boats in 2001 with this engine combo. It definitely moves quick 65mph with a full tank and 5 people and it had a little left. Thinking it could hit 70mph in ideal conditions

[AsLan7]

That’s when Cobalt really knew how to build some speed machines.

[bruceb58]

Have a picture of the controller? Could be the controllers left over from the OMC/Volvo joint venture. They were not the best and had issues with getting a little sloppy.

[cm2288]

here is a picture. It seems pretty smooth once in gear and all the way to full throttle just sometimes sticks towards neutral

[Twistedsteel51]

Sweet boat!!!!! Congratulations!!! I have my eye on a couple of 8.1 powered boats. Everybody I talk to says they are absolutely a blast!!!!! Please, be careful with her. Sounds like she gonna be a collectors item. I would be interested to know if you find out any more on the actual production numbers with the 8.1. For some reason, I’ve been find myself to desire to be a collector of these sea machines.