1966 1100 merc on boat

[pugerz]

Looking to buy this boat with a nice looking merc motor on it. boat is fair condition fiberform with a motor that turns over but does not start. The guy wants 200 for setup with trailer. What should i look for when i go over there tonight on the motor itself. I have a compression tester and was going to check the compression on it. Can i do this dry? Is there anything else i should know? my wife is going to be mad when i bring this home but it seems like a good deal. thanks for any input...

 

[arsenalpsu]

Re: 1966 1100 merc on boat

You can test it dry, but you're supposed to warm them up to get an accurate reading. Don't spray oil in it, that could give you a false reading on one with bad rings. (the oil will temporary seal the bad rings) Check for spark and that she shifts. I'd also want to find out why it won't start. I'd bring good gas w/oil mixed already, a battery, some fuel hose w/ a bulb, and muffs and see if you can't get her cranking. If you have gas, compression, and spark there is no reason she shouldn't at least fire up for a minute or so, even if the carbs are dirty and it needs timing set, fuel pump, etc.

BUT remember she's old and will need some work even if all the right stuff is working.