'85 175HP Merc

[FreeBeeTony]

I may have the opportunity to buy a '85 175hp Merc, with a 21' '85 MFG Caprice. I always wanted one of these boats. The asking price is $650. Are their any problems with this engine? I currently own a '89 88hp SPL 'Rude which everyone raves about as such a good engine. I'm hoping this Merc is in the same category.<br /><br />Any input is welcome!

 

[sloopy]

Re: '85 175HP Merc

WOW yes the mercs are a great engine... some people love them some people hate them! they are good engines, and it will give you years of good service if you love it. I myself am a Evinrude yamaha fan, but mercs are good engines! I know some people who have a 197?'s merc and have never changed the impellor or had work done to it.. (although I would change the inpellor and get it checked over and retuned for $200.00 thay way it will be like new <br />AND FOR THAT PRICE YOU CAN'T GO WRONG! IF YOU DON'T BUY IT i WILL!!!!!

 

[RICKRICK1]

Re: '85 175HP Merc

Freebetony--Like all used outboards you need to check cylinder compression and the lower unit for water. As sloopy said you should change the impeller immediately and reservice the lower unit. That sounds like a great price.<br />Good Luck

 

[Reel Appeal]

Re: '85 175HP Merc

Tony,<br /> Check the vertical steering shaft(goes through transom bracket) for corrosion.Steering shaft stiffness or seizing is a common problem if the motor was not maintained well.In other words,check the steering on the boat...Keep those fittings greased... I have a disassembled '86 Merc.175 which runs great but unable to use due to forementioned problem.Have heard same from others,especially with saltwater use.