Sounds like Bt Doctur can get you going, don't be discouraged by some of the comments we all had to start with little or no knowledge about this boat stuff. Willingness to listen and seek advice is the best you can do and it looks like you came to the right place!
Correct prop, WOT engine rpm's, if the engine isn't getting up to proper rpm's the prop could have too much pitch. Worst news would be weak engines but I wouldn't guess that first. Rpm's for a start.
You may have to do an in the water shift adjustment. I had trouble with my alpha drive (1987) and the shifter was very finicky. Finally, after two summers of iffy shifting, had to have the lower unit looked at to make an internal repair, one small part. I had most of the tools to disassemble a...
I haven't done any old boat restoration but I joined this facebook group to see what is involved with getting an old boat back to nearly new.
Power Boat Restoration, upgrades, and fiberglass repair
You should take a look (join) at this site to see what might be involved with a boat that old.
Are you going to be towing it? My 2001 230 weighs 6600# with some skis and 1/2 tank fuel. I don't know how that compares to a 1989 230. I have always owned open bow boats for the extra space. Most important, check it out and have fun!
jv
My boat/trailer is 6,600#, my vehicle max trailer rating is 9,800#. I towed the boat from Kentucky to Wisconsin and was impressed (gas mileage wasn't too good) with the performance (braking and handling). When you consider tow vehicles find the tow ratings and use them to help you decide. I have...
One of the good points that I read on this site was "never approach anything faster than you would like to hit it." That seems to come to mind whenever I come up to dock now. As much fun as it would be to do a "Captain Ron Docking" I'd rather not be fixing gel coat.
ebay has the tanks
http://www.ebay.com/itm/883166A2-Alpha-Bravo-Tilt-Trim-Pump-Motor-Fluid-Plastic-Reservoir-/131246656977?hash=item1e8ee90dd1&vxp=mtr
my old alpha used atf.
copied from the HD web site product overview...
Durable, lead-free brass is an excellent choice, with all tapered pipe threads manufactured to highest quality standards and tolerances.
copied from West Marine...
WEST MARINE Garboard Drain Plug
Allows quick drainage of boat when hauled out. 1/2" NPT tapered pipe threads ensure a watertight fit. •Cast brass construction
The Brass plug from HD will be just fine NPT stands for 'national pipe thread'. A couple sounds like a good...
Liv'n'Luce looks great! It kinda makes me wish that I would have kept my '87 Regal and continued with the refurb. Those older boats really have lines that keep me looking. T
hanks for posting your story and have a great time with your boat and family.