Buying my first outboard, how to test out of water?

[CB Rob]

Hi guys, I've found a mercury 20 horse that I might purchase today. Its an 80's model ( havent confirmed a seriel number yet) that appears to be in near perfect condition on the outside. I have a compression tester, and I plan to check lower unit lube also. Can I run the motor and shift it with earmuffs on, or do I need to do a barrel test. Also, I plan on giving 700 for the motor, which is well above nada bluebook. They say the motor should be worth around 400. Around here, 400 would get you an old merc 4 hp and thats about it. 700 doesnt sound too far out of line does it?<br />thanks for helping a newbie out <br />Rob

 

[Darryl34]

Re: Buying my first outboard, how to test out of water?

I would not recomend running it without muffs.The inpeller needs water,right away.If this helps,I just sold a 1973 50 h.p. for 300.00,in need of a impeller.

 

[DJ]

Re: Buying my first outboard, how to test out of water?

I would recommend the barrel. You can get away with running it in a five gallon bucket, as long as you do not engage it in gear.

 

[JB]

Re: Buying my first outboard, how to test out of water?

Ditto DJ.<br /><br />Use the barrel, so you can put a little load on it.<br /><br />You cannot tell much about an outboard with no load. They will idle and rev nicely running with a dead cylinder.