Is it worth rebuilding?

[lhall8]

I have an early 70s Mercury 200 20 HP, which is in decent shape, but the engine is shot. Should I try patching it up with new rings and pistons, go for a full rebuild, or trash it and get a new motor? Also, if I get a new motor for my 15' jon boat, is there any problems with getting something like a five horse motor. I don't care if it goes fast, just going to be going around small lakes.

 

[studlymandingo]

Re: Is it worth rebuilding?

The 5HP will never plane that boat out. A 15HP would be more energy efficient. As to the 20HP Mercury, what are you restoring it for? If it is because you want a classic motor, go for the full rebuild; be wary, parts may be hard to come by, and expensive. If you just want a 20HP motor, you will probably find a used motor in running condition for less than the rebuild. I would check with a Merc parts dealer for the cost of a rebuild kit.

 

[Clams Canino]

Re: Is it worth rebuilding?

A brand new in the box powerhead for that motor just sold on Ebay last week. A<br /><br />Rebuild it... you'll have fun and learn something.<br /><br />And NEVER get your rebuild parts from Brunswick Mercury unless you are sure that the aftermarket houses don't have anything. If that's a 22ci block, I'm *sure* there are cheap parts afoot.<br /><br />-W

 

[Motor Boater Bill]

Re: Is it worth rebuilding?

I'd look for a used powerhead if it was me. I bought one last winter on eBay for $30 plus $35 shipping--sorry, I'm keeping it! Haven't run it but good compression and turns freely. Much cheaper than a rebuild. Then if you want to make a project of the rebuild, you can do that at your leisure or keep it for parts. I also often see Merc 200's for sale with no lower unit.<br /><br />Where are you located? If you decide not to fix this I might be interested.

 

[lhall8]

Re: Is it worth rebuilding?

I guess I'll look for a used powerhead on ebay, I just had this motor sitting around the garage and needed something for a little fishing. That is why I don't mind if it is slow, I'm just going to putting around a lake this summer. My main goal is it being cheap.

 

[lhall8]

Re: Is it worth rebuilding?

By the way, I have a 72 model, what year powerheads will fit this engine?

 

[Motor Boater Bill]

Re: Is it worth rebuilding?

You need to go by serial number rather than year--Merc often made changes during model years, and the ignition changed right around 1972 if I'm not mistaken. However, if you get a complete powerhead, there should be more years that fit--versus getting a good block and transplaning the rest of your motor's parts to it (ignition, etc).<br /><br />What is your serial number?