mercury vs force differences

Joined
Jul 21, 2008
Messages
11
I tried to get answers under the Force forum and only got one, so I thought I'd try it under Mercury. I am looking at a 1992 Bayliner Walk Around sport fisherman that has the original Force 150 HP outboard on it. Owner has receipts for a new powerhead 2 years ago. He says it was made by mercury? A web search showed Mercury bought the design out from Chrysler and at some point, made parts that were interchangeable with Mercs? Motor looks to be in great shape as well as the whole boat for that matter. Very well maintained. Questions are (1) Are these good motors? (2) Does it share any parts at all with a Mercury? (3) Are parts readily available for these motors? (4) What's with the 5 cylinder design? (5) Anything else I need to know about before purchasing this boat / motor? Thanks so much, Dave
 

CharlieB

Vice Admiral
Joined
Apr 10, 2007
Messages
5,617
Re: mercury vs force differences

Before Merc dropped the Force line in effort to reduce the Corporate emmissions level, they began using Merc ignition parts, ignition modules, cdm coils.

It's been a number of years, so many Merc has dropped the Mariner line for the same reason, EPA pressure.

A growing number of Force parts are being discontinued every year, the aftermarket has picked up and is producing some parts, but some OEM are getting harder and harder to locate.

Was the Force a good engine, I liked it, fed well and maintained they work for a long time. But just like the Ford/Chevy/Chrysler, everyone has their own preference. Anyone can abuse any brand motor and ruin it. All have the potential to perform well and last for years, it all depends on the individual owner/operator.

Prior to purchase, test compression, test spark, pull a fuel sample, pull an oil sample from the gearcase. Look under the hood, in the nooks and crannys, upholstery seams, get a better understanding of how well it has been maintained, if it was well cared for maybe it wasn't abused running.

If you and the seller take it out, see, feel, hear how it starts and performs.

If it ALL checks out and you and the seller agree on a number, then maybe that is righta good value for you both..
 
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