thinking about 1982 150hp 1 owner

[mirage500]

I am going to look at a 17 ft boat that has only had 1 owner from new, it has the origional 1982 150hp Merc. The guy says he has only used it 2 times in 4 years and it has never given him any problems. He has new impellor for it.
What are the chances of it still being reliable after all this time?
Thanks for your help as I like the boat but not sure about the outboard.

 

[crem1]

Re: thinking about 1982 150hp 1 owner

Do a check of the cylinder compressions, should be evenly disributed readout(10-15%)

 

[sschefer]

Re: thinking about 1982 150hp 1 owner

The chance that it is in decent shape is actually pretty darn good. These are hearty engines and although they've undergone some changes over the years, the V-6 engine is basically the same. By virture of is 60 degree design it is a reliable and low stress engine. That also means that a lot of parts are available and the prices are reasonable.

 

[mirage500]

Re: thinking about 1982 150hp 1 owner

thanks, I'm not so sure he old guy would like me doing a compression on his boat in his driveway. He seems honest about everything and the boat is in good shape, will see what happens today.

 

[j_martin]

Re: thinking about 1982 150hp 1 owner

thanks, I'm not so sure he old guy would like me doing a compression on his boat in his driveway. He seems honest about everything and the boat is in good shape, will see what happens today.

If you have a good ear, and can crank it for ten seconds without it starting, (don't hook up the fuel line) you can hear a weak cylinder as a skip in the cadence.