1972 140 hp Merc I/O-What to look for ?

[muskrat808]

Hi , looking to buy a 1972 Starcraft Holiday with a 140 hp merc I/O . Will probably have it inspected but I was wondering if there is anything special to look for and are these good engines or is 39 yrs too much to expect from them ? Timer says 789 hrs but seller didn't think that was accurate . Boat also leaked about 1/2 gal after being in the water for 30 min-could that much be from rivets or from outdrive etc penetration in transom ? Thanks !

 

[Bondo]

Re: 1972 140 hp Merc I/O-What to look for ?

Ayuh,... At 40 years old, She's suspect from stem to stern...

 

[jerryjerry05]

Re: 1972 140 hp Merc I/O-What to look for ?

40yr old aluminum boats are gonna leak.Silicone can help that.
Take it to a dealer and have him go over the motor/drive.
800hr could be right in an area that freezes.My brother bought a 21 Thompson and it has set since he bought it 2 years ago.J

 

[muskrat808]

Re: 1972 140 hp Merc I/O-What to look for ?

Hi -original poster here - my local I/O mechanic says that parts (especially exhaust manifold ) will be next to impossible to find for this type and year of motor and drive . He suggested staying clear of this purchase for thst reason alone . Ant comments on that ? Thanks

 

[dozerII]

Re: 1972 140 hp Merc I/O-What to look for ?

I purchaced a 1972 Starcraft SS 18 last summer with a Mercruiser 120 in it and love it. I have had to replace a few things on it and have yet to find anything I can't get. I just purchaced an exhaust manifold with gasket set, no problem. I also just recieved today the four stainless wrapped trim hoses, no problem. So I think your mechanic just doesn't want to work on the boat. Also it is a great runner and only sips fuel which makes me real happy.
Glen

 

[kilowatts]

Re: 1972 140 hp Merc I/O-What to look for ?

Hi Guys:

I have a 35 year old boat with the original inline six engine and outdrive, both in great shape. The engine has not been bored out has the original head and pistons and the compression specs are stock across the board. The real answer to your question is that if the thing has been maintained for its lifetime then its probably going to be OK. However, if its been neglected then watch out for trouble of many kinds. This forum will help a great deal. The engine was and is a champ, simple, cheap, economical and reliable giving reasonable power. About right for marine use! Good Luck.

kilowatts