Any warnings about buying a boat w/ a 2003 Mercruiser 3.0

[bzentner]

This is my first post so I’d like to say that this forum is very cool. Thanks to all who contribute. I’ve found a ton of useful stuff here. I am going to look at an 86’ Sea Ray Seville (18’ to 19’) this weekend. The owner says it has a 2003 140HP Mercruiser 3.0. Does anyone know of any problems I should look out for in a later model 3.0? I did read Don S fairy tale which was most enlightening and entertaining I’m just trying to be as careful as possible before I sink a couple of grand into a boat. Thanks.

 

[vipzach]

Re: Any warnings about buying a boat w/ a 2003 Mercruiser 3.0

Welcome to Iboats z-ray!<br />As far as that merc and drive are concerned......run like the wind!!

 

[vipzach]

Re: Any warnings about buying a boat w/ a 2003 Mercruiser 3.0

I was just kidding man. They are a good motor and drive setup. Ask what maintenance has been done. Check the oil for water and don't buy it without driving it.

 

[bzentner]

Re: Any warnings about buying a boat w/ a 2003 Mercruiser 3.0

Thanks for the affirmation. I am definitely planning on getting a ride first. If you don't mind me asking how big (length and weight) is your boat and how fast does the 3.0 push it?

 

[Packers4ever]

Re: Any warnings about buying a boat w/ a 2003 Mercruiser 3.0

I have a 1997 Bombardier Celebrity 18foot Bow rider it weighs about 2500lbs I have the 3.0 ltr Merc and I can get about 33mph out of it with 4 people in the boat I have enjoyed my boat and Moter for some time now watch the idle is not set to high around 700 when idling in gear is good and be careful of dieseling these motors are common for that causes are idling to high running not enough octane in the gas or shutting down to soon after a hard run..let it idle for a few minutes<br /><br />Have fun and the best of luck<br /><br />Skipper

 

[vipzach]

Re: Any warnings about buying a boat w/ a 2003 Mercruiser 3.0

My boat is 18', I don't know the weight, I would guess 2500-3000. Just a guess though. I have a SS 17p prop turning 4500 rpm's at a little over 35 mph.

 

[chuck in WA]

Re: Any warnings about buying a boat w/ a 2003 Mercruiser 3.0

I've got an '85 Sea Ray, 17 foot. Don't know the weight, but I get 38mph on the GPS with the Merc 140.

 

[Rhadley]

Re: Any warnings about buying a boat w/ a 2003 Mercruiser 3.0

Check the boat very thoroughly for signs of rot. Take a screwdriver and press it into the sides, the transom, and surfaces down in the ski locker. (Do this from inside the boat). If you find any soft spots, chances are there is a rot problem that is very costly to fix.<br /><br />I'd also run the boat hard for a bit so it heats up well, turn it off a few minutes, and see if it re-starts easily. <br /><br />Let a few drops of outdrive fluid drip out and look for any milky appearance (water).

 

[bzentner]

Re: Any warnings about buying a boat w/ a 2003 Mercruiser 3.0

Rhadley,<br /><br />Thanks for the tips. When you talk about rot you mean within the wooden risers and wood reinforcing the transom, correct? I will certainly check these things. The owner did say the risers have been replaced and the floor was refiberglassed.<br /><br />What is the average running temperature for this engine?<br /><br />In response to VIPZach's suggestions:<br />While I'm showcasing my ignorance, as far as checking for water in the engine oil what is the best way to do this? Do I need to pump some of the oil out with a dipstick pump?

 

[vipzach]

Re: Any warnings about buying a boat w/ a 2003 Mercruiser 3.0

My temp never reads over 140, I believe alot of guys on here say they run around 160-170. After you run the boat for a little while, you can usually just pull the dipstick and see if the oil looks milky.

 

[bzentner]

Re: Any warnings about buying a boat w/ a 2003 Mercruiser 3.0

Thanks again! I really appreciate everyones help.