When purchasing a used outboard.................

mauryc · #1 06-04-2007, 12:43 PM

Folks, I've got a general question. If and when I start looking for a newer motor (read: newer used motor), there are a few questions I have. First, is there a general rule of thumb on the amount of hours a motor has and its relative life span. Or, is it all tied to the compression? For instance, if I'm looking at a motor that's in my price range that has, say 250 hours on it with equal compression, does that motor still have plenty of life or is it getting close? I've never had an hour meter so I can't really judge usage hours. I understand there are some models that are prone to problems (I've heard to stay from the early Ficth motors) and obviously metal and water in the lower unit isn't good, so it all boils down to compression and hours, as I see it.

I'd appreciate feedback from you guys.

Thanks,
Maury

THEFERMANATOR · #2 06-04-2007, 12:50 PM

Another thing to watch for in older outboards is corrosion. Many a person has bought a used engine with decent compression only to have it start blowing steam out the pea hole in a short time from a bad head gasket, or even worse block rot. Give it a good visual lookover, and check compression. I also like to pull the airbox off and hold my hand over each intake and turn the engine over to make sure it is pulling in good air, and the reed valves aren't bad and blowing out air.

Blue_Runner · #3 06-04-2007, 12:57 PM

Flounder, first off my 150hp Yamaha probably has well over 300 hours and she's just getting started!

I don't have an hour meter so that's just an estimation. Another friend of mine has an hour metere and he bought his motor at the same time as I bought mine. I run mine more than he does and he has over 200 hours so that's where I get my estimation.

I'd say compression is the first thing to check for sure. Of course there are many many factors involved here - does it look like it was taken care of? Does the owner sound knowledgeable about maintenance issues such as impeller, fuel filters etc. Also I know others will agree that you should sea-trial if possible. Know the manufacturers suggested max RPM's beforehand and pitch of prop in order to see if the motor is making max RPMs at WOT.

You'll know when you find a good one. The sun, moon and stars will allign....you'll hear violins and trumpets in the distance....bikini clad women will dance in your thoughts....ok well maybe not that last one but you get the picture!

Good luck man!

Blue

Pipe_Dream · #4 06-04-2007, 01:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Blue_Runner

....bikini clad women will dance in your thoughts....

That happens to me all the time! :D

Blue_Runner · #5 06-04-2007, 01:12 PM

Why am I not surprised ::)
(me too ;D)

reelapeelin · #6 06-04-2007, 01:14 PM

Flounder, my good friend that I run to the Gulf Stream with has a pair of Opti-Max 200s ...strong, very fuel efficient motors ... he takes care of them, maintains them and won't hesitate to run 60-70 miles off ...they are '99 models w/ 2000 hours on 'em ... point is, 200-400 hours on a motor is nothing, IF it's been maintained ... ;) ...

macojoe · #7 06-04-2007, 02:35 PM

Most motors when taken care of will make the 2000 mark!

I would first ck lower unit oil, make surwe there is no water in it!!
I had a friend buy a motr once got home and lower unit was water!

Compresion test before starting are all the numbers with in 10% of each other?

What did the plugs look like? Rust, lots of oil, just wet?? Just wet is nice.

If you know before had what kind of motor you going to look at find out what the numbers should be. some are in 100's others 90's

Start it up, did it start right up or did it stall over he place??

Does it run at idle with out jumping off stand or boat?

Is it pumping good water??

Let it run for a bit and bring a Lazer themp with you see if heads are cool

If it is a Yamaha before 1994 check the shift rod they rot down bt the cavation plate.

And the best test of all is a sea trial! But thats not always possible.

Follow all they above and you should be fine, just remember all used motors are a gamble at best!! I know thats all I have ever had!!

Good Luck, and don't be in a hurry!! You will feel it when you find the right motor!

If you think its not right but its the only thing there right now walk away!! there will be another!

shicks007 · #8 06-04-2007, 05:12 PM

When I was looking for a "newer" outboard, I was told that 100 hrs a year is a good average to use. My 97 150 Evinrude I bought last year had 400 hours on it and good compression. Runs great and very strong. Just my $.02

mauryc · #9 06-04-2007, 06:41 PM

Thanks for the feedback gentlemen.