Mid 70's 55hp Evinrude - Any Good?

[phipps]

A local marina has, what they say is, a 1975 55hp Evinrude. I think it maybe a 76 as Evinrude doesn't list a 55 in 75, but nevertheless, are these motors reliable motors? Are parts easily available or should I stay away?

They are asking $500 and I have a '95 28hp Johnson that they've told me they would give me $500 as trade-in so I've been debating seeing if they would even trade me.

I'm a little leery of the year. My 28 starts right up everytime and I hate to risk getting into something that may nickle and dime me to death.

 

[JB]

Re: Mid 70's 55hp Evinrude - Any Good?

It was a pretty reliable outboard 35 years ago, Phipps. It has lasted those 35 years; that should say something about it.

Get a model number and a compression test readout.

 

[R.Johnson]

Re: Mid 70's 55hp Evinrude - Any Good?

That twin cylinder 55 from the mid 70's was not a reliable motor in my opinion. I alway's said they came broke from the factory. The one shop I worked at would warrant any engine rebuilt. They would discourage any one from rebuilding the twin 50, 0r 55 as they did not want to warrant one.