Glad to see you get the resto thread started up again.
If you've got the $$$ for a late model DI or 4 stroke mid range motor ($4000 or so) go for it. A nice used Honda 115 back there would be sweet and provide plenty of power.
If you're going to spend a grand on a 1990 OMC V4 you might as well stick with the Force. You can do a compression and spark test on the Force while it's off the boat and learn a lot. Even if you don't keep it the tests will make it easier to sell if they show it is in decent condition. Remember, in boats one man's junk is another man's new motor
I think it depends on where you boat too. I am running 30 year old outboards on both of my boats, but I'm on a lake that is pretty small and I can get back to the launch on my trolling motor or get towed in pretty easily. I stay on top of my motors so I don't worry about them letting me sit, but I would not venture into big water with them without company. I go to Erie but I would not go out on Erie without my brother or nephew on their boats near me in case I had trouble.
Love those Blue Fin lines, my previously mentioned nephew had that same boat in the I/O configuration before his current Trophy.
I agree, your hesitation on big water is my exact conundrum. Having a reliable kicker won't provide the backup I'd need in a worst case scenario on Saginaw Bay in late fall weather.
The motor tested great on spark & compression and judging by the well oiled cylinders, it was put to sleep properly.
It was newly installed & serviced a year prior to my purchase-(not that I believe everything I'm told) but replacing the rest of the floors and transom were beyond the PO's patience/ability level- and why, I was told, it was being sold.
I'd prefer a late 90's or newer replacement and have been keeping my ears open. I missed an opportunity on a good lead already.
If anyone could chime in on epoxy quantity, I'd like to have some guidance/reference to get it ordered.
Thanks in advance.
