09-02-2006, 06:51 AM
I have been looking around for a good used outboard and was wondering if there were any older models that I should definitely stay away from? I have always stayed away from outboards in the past, I had a bad experience with a Mariner/Yamaha years ago and have always had I/O or straight inboard boats since. The cost of fuel has me looking into something smaller, so an outboard is the only choice. With fuel nearing $4/gal, the 23 gal/hr boat's days are numbered.
I am looking for something in the 25 to 50 HP range with remote controls. I'd like to have power tilt and trim, but I realize that beggars can't be choosy there. Most later motors are way too price for me and I don't plan to go out far, mostly just rivers and back bays. I am looking at a mid 70's Mercury 50HP, an early 70's Johnson 40HP, and a mid 80's Mariner 35 HP. None have power tilt or trim, and all appear to be very clean used motors, all have seen saltwater, but all need something, thus why they are affordable. Two need starters, and one has an intermittent ignition problem, which I was told was a $200 stator. All three will need to props to match my application.
I keep seeing Mercury outboards listed for sale with reverse problems, is that a weak point on some engines? All of these engines have been sitting, and most likely will need a good tune-up, new lube and maybe carb work, but all run and have good compression.
What are my options for adding power tilt? I've seen some pretty shaky looking add on adapters that set the motor back away from the boat. They look like they'd add a lot of strain on the transom?
Any suggestions? I am still looking and am not in too big a hurry, but I just wanted to know if there are any to stay clear of?
[signature]
I am looking for something in the 25 to 50 HP range with remote controls. I'd like to have power tilt and trim, but I realize that beggars can't be choosy there. Most later motors are way too price for me and I don't plan to go out far, mostly just rivers and back bays. I am looking at a mid 70's Mercury 50HP, an early 70's Johnson 40HP, and a mid 80's Mariner 35 HP. None have power tilt or trim, and all appear to be very clean used motors, all have seen saltwater, but all need something, thus why they are affordable. Two need starters, and one has an intermittent ignition problem, which I was told was a $200 stator. All three will need to props to match my application.
I keep seeing Mercury outboards listed for sale with reverse problems, is that a weak point on some engines? All of these engines have been sitting, and most likely will need a good tune-up, new lube and maybe carb work, but all run and have good compression.
What are my options for adding power tilt? I've seen some pretty shaky looking add on adapters that set the motor back away from the boat. They look like they'd add a lot of strain on the transom?
Any suggestions? I am still looking and am not in too big a hurry, but I just wanted to know if there are any to stay clear of?
[signature]