buying a used Merc, need help

[motor boater]

so tomorrow morning, I'm buying a used Mercury outboard. It's only a 5 horsepower outboard and I'm not sure how old it is. I will try to post a picture. I'm buying it for 400 dollars cash, tomorrow morning. I already looked at it, and it appears to be in immaculate condition inside and out. And the last time the impeller was changed was only approximately 4 months ago and there is paperwork that states so. my question is, do you think I'm getting a decent deal? I'm using it for a 12 foot aluminum jon boat that I am purchasing from the same gentleman that has the outboard. I'm purchasing the jon boat for 300 dollars, and he told me he was going the motor for additional $400. but I used to have an 8 horsepower outboard, and I really liked that 1. So I'm not sure if I should go with something bigger than a 5 horsepower outboard for this jon boat or not. any advice? here is a link to the Craigslist ad Bass Tracker Jon Boat

 

[oldman570]

Re: buying a used Merc, need help

As the boat warning tag states, 7.5hp motor with 265 LB. load limit. These warnings should be heeded as the boat is small and narrow and will not take much if any bad water. Myself I would pass on the whole deal and look for a larger 14' wide boat and a larger motor that can handle more weight. The weight limit will restrict you to only going out by yourself as any other tackle, coolers, fuel, and anchors,will add up quickly. JMO
Oldman570

 

[tazrig]

Re: buying a used Merc, need help

Dito