How can I tell if the used outboard motor I'm buying is in good condition?
I am bearing in mind buying a 14' Monark aluminum flatbottom boat with a 20Hp Mercury Outboard Motor that was made in 1974. I would like to be familiar with what to look for when I go to check the motor out. I don't know anything about boat motors, so
first i would detach the gearcase drain slightly it is a little screw on the bottom of the foot
if water comes out or the oil looks milky don,t buy it
if it looks apprehensible or dark it is probably ok
look at the engine
Chris,, take it out for a excursion ! or,,,,have a mechanic that is willing to go with you ..no !,, take it for a ride ,outboard engines need to be ran!! put it to the evaluate ,run it for at least 20 ,minutes or more ,and not in a tank ,put it under a real
first i would unfasten the gearcase drain slightly it is a little screw on the bottom of the foot
if water comes out or the oil looks milky don,t buy it
if it looks bell-like or dark it is probably ok
look at the engine if the paint
if water comes out or the oil looks milky don,t buy it
if it looks bell-like or dark it is probably ok
look at the engine if the paint
A 1974 Merc under any conditions is in the geriatric list for outboards. 2 cycle engines can go forever, but eventually die from corrosion, especially if used in cure water. You can have the motor inspected, test compression, etc. just like a car
First factor to do is a compression test. If all the cylinders are close to the same reading you should be in good shape unless the readings are all low. Ask if it has been run is pickled water very much, if so, leave it alone, too many years of salt build
get someone you be aware who can look at it with you. I had a late fifties 35 johnson that I bought in 1980 and it still runs fine.
