Considering buying 1990 GT 200 Johnson V6

[Boat-ryder]

Lookin at a used boat with above mentioned engine, never had anything like it just asking for opinions. Owner claims it was rebuilt and bored .10 over with new everything. Runs good. Started right up on hose buy was a little harder on water. Had to choke it a few times even after it was warm. But once it started it idled fine. One thing I noticed at WOT it was only hitting 4300 rpm. I'm wondering if there is a problem or if he is just over propped. He's running a 26p. I've yet to run compression test but plan to tomorrow. What numbers should I look for? Thanks for any help

 

[racerone]

Have the motor tested on a dyno.

 

[emdsapmgr]

That engine should be propped to run right up to 6000 rpm's. Maybe the 26 pitch is just too much pitch for that specific boat. Most all engines will fire up and run great on the garden hose. It's another thing when the engine is struggling to push the exhaust out the prop which is nearly 2' under water. Pretty normal.

 

[Boat-ryder]

Was this a good engine? Parts easy to find? Did they have any common issues in this year range? Also never owned a boat with a water gauge, what kind of pressure is good? This one had around 10 while running down river. I think it was around 5 idling.

 

[emdsapmgr]

These 90 degree V6 engines have been pretty bullet-proof through the years. Even the Etech versions. They make lots of power. The GT/XP versions make up to 10% more than the number on the side of the cowling. 5 lbs at idle is fine. I'd be looking for closer to 19 or 20 bs at top end. The rubber impellers in these V6 engine are very robust and will last quite some time.