Opinions on 1970's Mercury 1150 Motor?

[Riddc19]

Hello,
I'm new to the site. Before buying a new rig, I thought I might buy a used older boat and play around with that to get comfortable with.

I bought an old 1980's fish and ski but Ebbtide and I'm looking for a motor.
I'm looking at a Mercury 1150. The year is mid 70's, it hasn't ran in while but does start. Looks like what it's needing is a tune up. Can anyone give me their opinion on this motor and dependability?
It's for sale for $600.
Thanks,

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Opinions on 1970's Mercury 1150 Motor?

Ridd, That is a 35year old motor. If that is a freshwater only motor, the price is a bit high, but may be worth it, however it should be in ready-to-go condition for that amount of $$. If the motor has had a salty life, cut the price in half, and maybe walk away anyway. There are certain components that breakdown under salt water usage, at least at the age of the motor.

Bottom line, you will have a hard time finding a mechanic to work on it, at any price. If you can do the work yourself, it may be a deal....However at that price, it should not need anything done to it. A tune up will be $200-$300, if you can find someone to do it.

 

[Riddc19]

Re: Opinions on 1970's Mercury 1150 Motor?

Wow, thanks for the quick response.. thanks goodness but it's only been in fresh water. I can do a good deal of the work but I dont want to spend my time working on it all the time either..
I know there's a 50-50 chance, but if it's been take care of, is this a good motor to have or should I look esle where..
Thanks,

 

[Riddc19]

Re: Opinions on 1970's Mercury 1150 Motor?

Anyone else has an opinion on this motor?
Thanks,

 

[diaric]

Re: Opinions on 1970's Mercury 1150 Motor?

value of the motor is realative to where you live and availability. living out here in the prairies, its near impossible to find any used motor for less then $1000, this includes ones going to early 60's. its cheaper to buy a boat and motor here just to get a motor

 

[Tadd_P]

Re: Opinions on 1970's Mercury 1150 Motor?

If that motor starts as is it is well, well worth it. If it does start the most it probably needs is a new set of plugs, carb rebuild and a new water impeller. I'd buy it if i were you.