85-86 Merc 25hp outboard??? Good or Bad?

[imported_Warren]

Hello all, I have a question about a Merc Outboard. Right now I own a 12 foot Western Aluminum with an 86 15hp Evinrude. I like the motor a lot and have learned and replaced all I could in the last 6 months to keep it running good. I am thinking of buying a boat thats for sale and sell mine. Its a Gregor 14ft aluminum with trail-rite trailer, controls (added) and a 25hp merc outboard. I would like to know if anyone has info??? Is this a good motor or am I going to run into problems? How fast should this boat go? And he said the Gregor is welded like my Western. Do they hold up??...Thanks for any info in advance. I went to the boat shop and they don't want to give me any advice for free.Also Are Merc parts as easy to get as the Evinrudes?......Warren

 

[The Marine Doctor]

Re: 85-86 Merc 25hp outboard??? Good or Bad?

Parts are readily available for Mercury engines. Depending on how much use the 25 Merc has that you are speaking of, it might be hard to start and idle to slow.<br /><br />There is an update kit to take care of this problem and it is not expensive.<---This would be all you would have to worry about.<br /><br />The engines are strong and good performers.<br /><br />But with any engine you are buying..check the compression, gear oil and spark before purchasing.<br /><br />TMD

 

[andrewkafp]

Re: 85-86 Merc 25hp outboard??? Good or Bad?

Also check for rusty sparkplug bases. This could mean corrosion in the head (Or cover). If it is leaking, you basically have to remove the powerhead and cover to replace/repair. Bolts can shear off in the process and may need to be drilled and tapped.

 

[imported_Warren]

Re: 85-86 Merc 25hp outboard??? Good or Bad?

Does anyone know if the 86 Merc 25hp outboard is a true 25 horses or is it overrated like some other motors? My evinrude 15 has more power than some 18 & 20hp outboards I have seen, and my buddy had a Force Outboard on his boat that really lagged.....Thaks Warren

 

[The Marine Doctor]

Re: 85-86 Merc 25hp outboard??? Good or Bad?

1986 should be prop rated hp.<br /><br />TMD