1996 Mariner 25 hp ELH tiller opinion

[mdavenpo]

I need a 25 hp for my boat and I have a chance to buy one for $1200, I saw pics and it looks clean. Owner says it has about 100 hours on it total.

I used to hear bad things about Mariner and looking to hear from you guys. Is it a decent motor, is the price fair and are parts easy to come by?

Thanks for your input.

Mark

 

[roscoe]

Re: 1996 Mariner 25 hp ELH tiller opinion

There is nothing wrong with that motor.
It is built and backed by Mercury.
Still being built by Mercury, just not sold in the US any longer.

My father has that exact model and year.

He has had 2 problems with it.
1- The little steel friction plate that is used to put resistance on the steering was assembled incorrectly at the factory. Correcting this took about 15 minutes.

2- He always puts way too much oil in the fuel.
I cleaned out the fuel system and bought him a measuring cup and 2 gallons of synthetic oil.

He uses his motor for 6-8 weeks a year, in the remote wilderness of Ontario.
It hasn't failed him yet.

The price is reasonable.

All parts are available from any Mercury dealer.


As with any motor, some basic inspection is in order.
Check the lower unit lube for water contamination or metal fragments.
Check the compression on both cylinders.
Run the motor (in water), test drive if possible.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: 1996 Mariner 25 hp ELH tiller opinion

agree

 

[Harker]

Re: 1996 Mariner 25 hp ELH tiller opinion

I have a 98 25hp Mariner tiller..it's the best motor I have ever owned. Check it over like the pro's just said to make sure it wasn't abused and have fun.