Purchasing a 1996 88hp Johnson

[guamguy]

About to purchase a 1996 88 Johnson. according to previous owner. Low hours on the unit and swears by it. Motor has been off the boat for about a year and is on it's side. On the other hand it still looks good. Looking to pick it up for cheap includes manuals and some spare parts. Can anybody give a broad estimate on how much to pay for this and if its worth it. Also any feedback on performance and history of this particular motor. DON't WANNA Dump BIG BUCKS ON NEW ENGINE!

 

[sailor_turned_stinkpotter]

Re: Purchasing a 1996 88hp Johnson

Hiya Guamguy,<br />I lived on Guam from 1997 to 2000, and as you probably know, most of the marine gear including boats, engines or what have you is greatly inflated cost-wise due to Guams relative isolation from the mainland U.S.<br />So, any price given by fellow members on this board probably wont apply to your situation.<br />However, before you consider buying the motor you should do the usual checks, eg compression, starting, etc, and if you are not very mechanically minded it would pay to have the mechanic at that outboard shop on Marine Drive on the way to Piti check it out for you. <br />Good luck....<br />ps...I sure miss those two seasons on Guam...the hot season, and the HOTTER season.......<br />dave.

 

[guamguy]

Re: Purchasing a 1996 88hp Johnson

Any feedback or history in this engine? Check around and haven't seen major problems. Would this be a good engine if everything checks out?

 

[DJ]

Re: Purchasing a 1996 88hp Johnson

guamguy,<br /><br />If everything checks out, that is a great engine.<br /><br />The crossflow OMC V-4's were some of the most durable engines ever made. They had loads of torque and idled reasonably well.<br /><br />The 88 is basically the same as other hp. ratings on the same (99.6) cid. block: 90, 100, 110, 112, 115, 135, 140, etc.<br /><br />The 88 is a low stress power rating and should last a very long time with care.

 

[guamguy]

Re: Purchasing a 1996 88hp Johnson

Thanks for the input. Will keep you guys updated on the outcome