1970 Merc 500 50Hp Opinions

[adesoto]

Have a seller with this motor for $300 and states the motor ran good prior to motor being removed from rotten boat. Comes with Controls, etc. anyone with experience or know off this motor. Is it easy to work on, what things should I look for etc. Your comments are greatly appreaciated. Right now, On my boat, I have a 90 25hp merc. Do you know if I am going to see a significant difference between these motors?
Thanks,

 

[reelfishin]

Re: 1970 Merc 500 50Hp Opinions

I had a 1973 Mercury 500 50hp on my one boat, it was a good runner with really good power. Those motors were fine but due to it's age, I'd look carefully at things like the wiring harness, corrosion, and by all means check the compression before buying it.
Mine had in the area of 140 psi per cylinder, but actual readings aren't as important as all of the readings being pretty much the same. I would be concerned if the readings were under 100 psi though.