What to look for?

[cbdeajr]

Looking to purchase a used bass boat with a 1997 75 HP Mercury Force motor. What should I be looking at on the motor and what type of problems do you normal have with a Merc Force motors (with low hours). It has been setting in a garge for the last 2 years.
Cecil

 

[ondarvr]

Re: What to look for?

You should be looking for a different motor, they are no longer made.

 

[CATransplant]

Re: What to look for?

Parts and service are still available for your 97 Force, so don't worry too much about that. Check compression on all cylinders. It should be 90 psi or more and within 10% on all cylinders. Check the gearcase oil for water intrusion by draining a little from the drain hole in the lower unit.

You should get an on-the-water test drive with any boat that costs more than about $1000. The outboard should start easily, and run smoothly at all speeds. It should shift crisply into forward and reverse.

If it has tilt and trim, those should work properly as well, without any creep or bleed-down.

There should be good cooling water flow, but you should also have the impeller replaced unless the owner has a receipt showing that it was done within the last two years.

Parts and service are available at Mercury dealers.

 

[cbdeajr]

Re: What to look for?

Thanks for the information. Checked with a local boat repair shop and they said Force was a bettter anchor than motor. So I will move on and see if I can find one with a better setup.