1986 SN 2001 issues need advice please

I'm working on a 1986 SN 2001 with the 351 and need some advise. Boat is now 3 1/2 hours away and I want to bring everything up next time I go. I've been searching for answers and as always have found fantastic posts here.
We spent the weekend with my dear friends slalom skiing, wake boarding and wake surfing. What a fantastic boat!
1) Blower motor is screeching and draws serious current when on. What is the correct size for a 86? 3 or 4 inch (forgot to measure it, nor did I get a chance to look at the unit = head smack) My gut is that it is a 3 inch
2) Battery in boat is smaller than the battery tray. What is the correct size battery for a 86 SN?
3) Oil pressure gauge was erratic so I'm going to order one from skidim.com
4) Had to move the shift lever to forward and reverse to get it to start at times. I'm guessing that it just needs a shift cable adjustment or do the NSS go bad?

TIA for taking the time and helping out.
I'm hooked!
Robert

GottaSki wrote: To safe you a wasted outing, also get a new cable pivot end for the throttle control . They tend to saw themselves in half. Its not obvious till you remove before it severs. I more suspect the op sender unit vs the gauge going bad. Independant of dimensions, get a true starting battery, 750CCA, and NOT Deep cycle. , as those are for fish motors and outboards. Spare impeller would be adventageous.

Thanks I'll grab that cable pivot too.
Yes I meant to say order a new sending unit - too early with little sleep LOL
I already replaced the impeller and have a spare.
I also have spare belts, thermostat and fuel filter.

Any one have input on the blower size?

I'd be pretty surprised if your blower hose was not 3"

The NSS is cheap, but so is bypassing it in an effort to save a weekend (driver be very aware).

Hollywood wrote: [QUOTE=TRBenj] Group 65 fits all of our battery boxes from '78 on up to '03. The Everstart Maxx-65N has proven to be decent and inexpensive (Walmart, ~$70).

x 2.
Check on the battery for who made it. Walmart carries batteries made by Exide and Johnston controls, the later is a better battery same company that make Interstate batteries.
Same battery as in my F-250 Diesel and had no problem starting at -30F

sstichter wrote: I have a squeaky blower too... Any tips/advice?

Most hardware store will carry a oil tube with a very small extendable metal tube used as a spout. You may be able to get back to the motor bearings and get some lube in them I've saved a couple that way.