[THEFERMANATOR]

Originally Posted by nymack66

Here is why I really like this model/years 85-87 140's the electronic parts are way cheaper than lets say 88-91 models. Price it on line you will see, Power Packs, Stator, Trigger etc. Its because of its cheap Cost Of Ownership I am sticking with it.
I am no Outboard mechanic, however the darn engine is so simple to fix it make looks like one or if I am in a pinch I tap into the resources on this site.
I did post the same question when I first purchase the Boat and the guys here all had good things to say about it.

85-87 does have simpler electronics on it, but that is where the advantages end. The 88+ large bore engines do have an edge for reliabilty for the most part. The 85-87 engines are TOUGH, so long as the carbs are in good shape AND the timing is set NO higher than 19 at 5500. 20 degrees total timing on a stock 86-87and you'll lose a piston, I can pretty much guarantee you that(don't ask, please). 85 had a wholel ist of problems due to it being the first year out, but they can be upgraded rather easily and run like a scalded dog. Take good care of an early small bore looper(clean fuel, clean carbs, and proper link and sync with timing set at 17-18 total at 5K), and she'll be a good long lasting engine that was one of the best on fuel that OMC ever built(the small bore engines were better on fuel at cruise by a good margin due to the aggressive porting with small bore). Abuse her though, and you'll curse her. And parts are EASY to find for them as so many different parts can interchange.