1978 Evinrude 200 HP worth it ???

[pgaturtle]

Last summer, my husband purchased a 1978 Glastron Carlson w/ a "rebuilt" 1978 Evinrude Outboard (200 hp) motor. First time out, it died, and we were towed in. $1,100.00 in repairs later (mostly upkeep/maintenance items - spark plugs, 3 carb kits?, lube/oil, water pump kit, and a new battery), we were able to use it for a week non-stop, and it ran great. Next time out - 2 hours fun - towed in... Battery jumped & started right up (something apparently draining it). Next, and last time - started right up, seemed to be "bogging" - docked it for an hour - then wouldn't start. Jumped it - Took to shop (different than 1st) - $160.00 in minor adjustments, & told "should be fine". Back in water for 1/2 hr., docked. Attempted to use again, started up, but would stall when he tried to put it into gear. Towed to ramp/trailer - and now shop says motor is completely blown, and needs rebuilt ($4,000.00), but will then be like new, and worth $14 to $15,000.00. For the money invested vs time used, we could have been renting a yacht, but hubby LOVES having this boat, but knows NOTHING relating to mechanics/engines, etc. (to define: perfectly clean fingernails, & pays shop to replace windshield wiper blades on car - understand?) Should it really cost that much to rebuild a 78 motor, and is it worth it? If we do this, what are chances, it will truly "behave" for awhile? If we don't, could we sell it for anything? Boat and/or motor? Anyone interested?<br />Thanks for any help for this person that shouldn't even own a boat....

 

[Goodoleboy]

Re: 1978 Evinrude 200 HP worth it ???

Welcome to the forum mam!<br /><br />Is they any way you can see, to talk him into takein up golf.<br /><br />dont fall for the ole 14 to 15 thousand trick. A 78 motor if it was ten thousand horse power wouldnt fetch more than 2500 at best.<br /><br />Just for parts I would guess mabey 1500 dollars. If you could hire a local kid that fools around with hot rods and is willing to work with folks here at the forum.<br /><br />I think we could makeer sing again....But I bet golf is lookin purty good to you bout now.<br /><br />Good luck!

 

[DHPMARINE]

Re: 1978 Evinrude 200 HP worth it ???

These figures just don't add up.No Way ever could I advise any motor owner to invest that kind of money in a motor that old.<br /><br />And there is also no way I'd tell a customer the motor is then worth 14,000 is just plain daft. (great word daft)<br /><br />Ask them if they do the 4000 dollar job,and it is now worth 13,000 will they give you 9,000 ? <br /><br />Take it if they do.<br /><br />DHP

 

[rodbolt]

Re: 1978 Evinrude 200 HP worth it ???

if its a freshwater motor and mostly clean it may be worth it if done correctly. 4000 is kinda high here but I do several a year. but you must find out why it went poof. the 78 200 was a fairly solid engine but I did not like the hydro mechanical gearcase. maybe best to look about for a dealer certified and/or warrenteed later model engine. several shops, like Rons Marine specialize in reconditioning moptors and he gives a one year dealer warrenty with all motors. when I do one I also give a one year warrenty. they are not hard but no shortcuts can be taken or longevity suffers.

 

[walleyehed]

Re: 1978 Evinrude 200 HP worth it ???

1500 bucks for that engine in excellent running condition would be pushing it...BUT, price a new 200!!!! This is where it becomes efficient to O/H the engine. It must also be a reputable shop, and 4000.00 isn't in any way, out of the ballpark for engine O/H, carb jobs, lower unit service, set-up and test-hop.<br />Then again, 4-6 thou will buy a good, used, higher tech engine, quite a few years newer, but you never know what you are getting for sure.

 

[OBJ]

Re: 1978 Evinrude 200 HP worth it ???

Yep....what Lee and DHP said. And better yet....have them rebuild it and then trade them even up for a 200 E-Tec.....really....take it to another shop for a goin' over and estimate. There is just no way a 78' 200hp power will ever be worth that kind of money.....cept maybe ta' Goodoleboy.....