need advice on used outboard purchase...

[bsteckel]

i am starting to look around for an outboard motor for my 1985 20' fisherman originally with a sea drive that has expired. i have a ton of experience with cars, but not much with boat motors, especially outboard motors. i have already found a flotation type bracket, so that is done.

from my research on this site, i am looking for a minimum of 150 hp to a max 0f 200 hp.

if i find a great deal on a 225, like the johnson motor posted in the classified section out of craigslist ... is it possible it can be used?

do i need to get all the steering, shift and throttle linkage or will the stuff i have work ... are all motors hydraulic steering and trim/tilt? what parts of the items i have in the boat can be re used if any?

what shoud i look for when looking at used outboards .. i see a lot about compression readings, etc. what are definite items i should be on the look out for.

i would like a dependable motor that i can work on myself rather than something i have to take to the dealer if there is a problem. i do not have enough experience to have develope a brand loyalty at this point. it looks like motors in the 1990 range - to mid nineties are available for a reasonable price. seen some yamahas, johnson, etc. i have read good things about the yamaha motors (2 stroke).

can you give me a crash course on what i need and what i should look for to do this project?

i know it is a tall order, but there is a lot of knowledge on this site!!!

thanks

Brad