Need information about swapping outboard

[Mr. Mason]

I have an 85 Bayliner Capri 16.5' boat that currently has an 80hp Johnson which just doesn't want to work. I have found a 68 Mercury 65hp for a good price with controls. Motor runs good and has good compression as I had a mechanic look at it. My question is will it be strong enough to push my boat. I don't need aggressive speed as the boat is mainly a fishing boat with occassional trips n tubing. Any help is greatly appreciated!

 

[corm]

Re: Need information about swapping outboard

Hi,

I do not think you would be happy dropping that much horse power. The Merc 4 cyl 65 hp engines were not that powerful compared to a 80 hp. I think you would be dropping about 20 cu inches which is a lot of power. They did run well
and if cheap enough would get you on the water until a better deal came along.

 

[Mr. Mason]

Re: Need information about swapping outboard

I appreciate your response. I didn't want to drop that much in horsepower but the old johnson just doesn't want to go anymore and parts aren't cheap. The marina selling the mrecury has it listed at $600. Is that pretty fair? At least it would get me fishing again

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Need information about swapping outboard

65HP would be reasonable on that boat. You will plane with 3 and tube fine.

I think $600 is outrageous for a 41 year old motor. I think $200 is better.

 

[Mr. Mason]

Re: Need information about swapping outboard

Thanks chris. I see your point. I'm starting to wonder if I should just fix the original johnson but that may cause more problems. Or perhaps negotiate the price down.