Motor opportunity

[Cubbyblue22]

So I recently came across a motor that looks like a 1975 115 hp mercury that is in pretty good shape. Now it does have controls but it does not have power tilt. Is this something that most of you pontoon owners would say is a must have??? Keep in mind i'm only 22 and on a tight budget, but with a determination to put this boat together. Also what kind of money would you be looking to pay for a decent running motor with this age??? Thanks everyone

 

[lmuss53]

Re: Motor opportunity

Just as a reference I bought a '75, 85 HP Johnny in the last few weeks for $150 and sold it last week for $300. I would not go much over that for a 35 year old motor. I bought the 1985, 90HP Johnny that I have on my boat in April for $1000, with controls, T/T and in good running condition. That was with a soft bottomed boat that I scrapped and a nice galvinized trailer that I still have, but expect to sell for around $350. Watch Craigslist and local online classifieds for good motor bargains.

As to tilt and trim, I didn't have it on my old motor and got along OK. I do have it now and enjoy the convenience. If you are running in shallow water or banking up often it is a big help.