Pros & Cons of '96 25 hp Johnson?

[Valley Boater]

I'm going to inspect a '96 Johnson 25 hp tiller model this weekend for possible purchase. I am very familiar with the 9.9 OMC outboards of which I've had very satisfactory ownership. I used to have a '90 40 hp Johnson that I experienced a failed VRO and tilt assist cylinder. The engine could be rebuilt, the tilt assist cylinder couldn't (not to be confused with power tilt). Looking at an on-line parts list I didn't see at VRO nor tilt assist on the parts diagram for the '96 25 hp. I need a tiller outboard in 25 - 40 hp range for occasional use (probably only 1 or 2 weekends every summer) and this one is priced right ($700) and looks like it has low hours.
Can anyone offer suggestions on strengths & weaknesses of the '96 25 hp OMC? Aside from compression test, lower lube check and tank testing for running, shifting & peeing, what are some potential year/model specific problems areas I should be evaluating or be prepared to face with ownership? I would consider the '90 40 hp OMC a poorly designed outboard, did OMC do better with the 25 hp model in 1996?

 

[jbjennings]

Re: Pros & Cons of '96 25 hp Johnson?

THe OMC 25hp 2-cylinders of the 90's were the best ever built in my opinion. I don't know of any cons, unless you count plastic parts--which they all have now.
Great motors,
JBJ

 

[hidef]

Re: Pros & Cons of '96 25 hp Johnson?

As long as the 25 in question is a twin cylinder. From 96-2001 they also made a triple while mechanically it is good outboard the electronics (Power Pack) and oil mixing system had problems.

 

[boobie]

Re: Pros & Cons of '96 25 hp Johnson?

Any model #'s ???

 

[Valley Boater]

Re: Pros & Cons of '96 25 hp Johnson?

I don't have model number yet, good question and I'll inquire if 2 cylinder or 3. Thanks for reply's.