87 Force 125HP-Should I buy

[ScottG76]

Still need a motor for my runabout and I came across an 87 Force that's for sale in my hometown. Seller reports he bought the boat as a parts boat and now he wants to get rid of it. The motor came to him locked and the previous owner states that it ran until the boat flooded up on him. Apparently the motor won't turn over, even with a breaker bar.
I might be able to get this motor for super cheap, but I know nothing about Force motors except that they are Chrysler and Chrysler is crap on land. How much am I looking to pay for a rebuild or can I do the rebuild myself? I have basic knowledge of rebuilding a lawnmower engine and will have help along the way if I need it.
THanks for the help. Haven't been on in awhile and I'm starting to catch the bug again.

 

[foodfisher]

Re: 87 Force 125HP-Should I buy

Easy to work on if you have the want to. I'd be sure I knew what the lock up was before purchase, so I knew what I was up against. The guys on the site and a manual will get you through any repair.

 

[Jeremy90bay]

Re: 87 Force 125HP-Should I buy

There is an older post on here from someone doing a rebuild on a force (possibly a 125). It was from last summer I think. Do a search for it. it was a great thread that answered a ton of questions! Also Frank A. would be the guy to contact on this. Hes very good.

 

[ScottG76]

Re: 87 Force 125HP-Should I buy

What kinds of things should I be looking for before I buy? Is this motor an ok platform for rebuilding? Definitely not my first choice, but if I can make this work for cheap then so be it. I needed a summer project and this might just be the thing.

 

[jerryjerry05]

Re: 87 Force 125HP-Should I buy

These motors ARE good.No matter what anyone says.Easy to work on and maintain.You will always find someone to put anything down.I have a friend that hates Honda's.
It might be locked because of the lower unit(probably not), pull the head and see what's there.You didn't say a price but if it's cheap enough chalk it off to a learning experience.
And if you do rebuild you will have a decent motor that doesn't need a computer to change the oil.J

 

[ScottG76]

Re: 87 Force 125HP-Should I buy

Updated photos show that the motor has been neglected. I would show the thread but I don't want anyone to jump on it. The bid is at $99 right now and I would expect it not to rise too much more because there has only been one bid. The guy lives in my home town so I'm sure I can wheel and deal and get it for not too much more than what it's posted at right now.
Are there any deal breakers that would make an engine not rebuildable? What would I look for to determine if it's complete junk or not? I don't think it will be possible to take apart the engine, but I can take the cover off and check out the electronics.

These motors ARE good.No matter what anyone says.Easy to work on and maintain.You will always find someone to put anything down.I have a friend that hates Honda's.
It might be locked because of the lower unit(probably not), pull the head and see what's there.You didn't say a price but if it's cheap enough chalk it off to a learning experience.
And if you do rebuild you will have a decent motor that doesn't need a computer to change the oil.J

 

[foodfisher]

Re: 87 Force 125HP-Should I buy

Not a deal breaker but a lot of corroded bolts will be a heart breaker.

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: 87 Force 125HP-Should I buy

Dont buy it!-----------

The engine, according to the owner is locked up and has seen water. Internals are most likely rusted past any salvage. You need something to work with to do a financially viable rebuild.

You need to buy it as a junker for parts--certainly less than 200 bucks because you have no idea what parts can be salvaged. Caveat emptor--buyer beware

The only thing you are buying is a midleg and lower unit. Possibly a power trim unit. Maybe electronics. If you can use them, then the engine is a bargain. But to buy specifically to rebuild? I think not.