twin 170 mercs

[Snakester1965]

I'm buying a 1987 28ft imperial boat with twin 170 mercs. Engines both run and have only about 300 hours on them. But they are old motors. Anyone have some advice on these motors. This is my first big boat with an inboard/outboard motor. Have only had bassboats with outboards.

Do these motors have a good rep? Do they have any history of major problems? Since they are 4 bangers I would assume that they should be cheaper to rebuild down the line. Usually 4 cylinder engines are pretty reliable from what I have heard. Any info on both the motors or this make of boat would help me out since I have not bought the boat just yet.

 

[stonyloam]

Re: twin 170 mercs

Most folks here would tell you to stay away from them. Do a search here for "470" or "3.7 l", and you will see what I am talking about. I have one (that I kind of like) and they require a lot of maintenance. With 300 hours, if the water pump seals have not been replaced they will need to be. Good luck.

 

[180shabah]

Re: twin 170 mercs

Do these motors have a good rep?

NOPE.

Do they have any history of major problems?

Leaky cam seals that allow coolant into the oil, some had undersized heat exchangers, funky OB style charging system......

Since they are 4 bangers I would assume that they should be cheaper to rebuild down the line.

Wrong again, this was a Mercruiser designed/engineered engine. Unlike the GM Ford and Chrysler engines typically used, there are no "common" parts available for it.

There are some people who "love" them, but they are the exception, not the rule.

 

[Snakester1965]

Re: twin 170 mercs

thanks for the run down on these engines. I guess I'm gonna keep looking for another boat.

 

[180shabah]

Re: twin 170 mercs

Probably a wise decision. There are way too many out there right now to settle.

 

[mkast]

Re: twin 170 mercs

1987 28ft imperial boat with twin 170 mercs

I was on board one of these boats.
Full fuel, six of us (plus owner) with food and drink for the weekend.
Engines were warmed up while the boat was loaded.
Left the slip, motored through the marina, got outside the breakwater, throttled up. After a moment or two, owner asks, "Will everyone please move to the bow of the boat." A guy onboard asks, "Why do we have to go to the bow?"
Because the boat is underpowered!