opinions on 1998 Mercury 150 offshore carb. model

[dannoklos]

I am considering buying a used boat powered by twin 1998 Mercury Offshore 150's carb. models not EFI. What is the general concensus on these motors and are there any known problems they are notorious for. I am kind of scared of committing to this older technology but the price is decent on this rig and I dont want to miss out on a good boat if these outboards are real workhorses. They are not counter rotating and apear to be in great shape with low hours. All opinions welcomed thankfully.

 

[HeadHunt]

Re: opinions on 1998 Mercury 150 offshore carb. model

I would chose Honda or Yamaha, especially for saltwater.

 

[rodbolt]

Re: opinions on 1998 Mercury 150 offshore carb. model

hello<br /> that OLD tech actually works pretty well.<br /> merc electronics are sometimes a bit failure prone. the oil pump drive gear gets a bit dicey if the motor is not stored properly but overall they are good solid engines normally

 

[gss036]

Re: opinions on 1998 Mercury 150 offshore carb. model

I am running a 1989 Merc 200 HP. I blew a powerhead @140 hrs & 13 months, Merc would not help me out, but I put on a new powerhead and it has been running great since, only a few minor problem. Those are oil injected, so pay attention to your alarm system.<br />I would never buy a new Mercury simply because they will give the shaft on warranty issues. My engine lost a lower bearing cap nut, Mercury put it together, so they should have stood behind thier assembly mistake and did not.