1988' BlackMax 150hp or 2004' 200hp Saltwater series???

[Buddeee]

Currently have an 88' Blackmax 150hp 2.0L that is running well but I have an opportunity at an 04' 200hp Saltwater series with 400 hours on it for a decent price The Blackmax has been solid for the couple years I've had the boat but I'm wondering if I should upgrade to the 200hp...newer engine and more HP. The little extra HP would be nice but not a big deal. Not really worried about gas mileage as I only use the boat about 12 times per year in the ocean.

Is the 88' worth the risk to keep going until she dies or should I jump in something newer (but still old as well...but 16 years newer than current set-up)

Any thoughts or input would be great!

Thanks

 

[Chris1956]

Will your boat handle the extra power?

I guess the main difference would be reliability. An'88 motor is old enough where wiring and electronics can start to fail.

 

[Buddeee]

Yes boat is 21' Sea Pro 210WA. Can handle up to 225hp. Had a trusted boat shop look at boat motor when I bought it a couple years ago and they said the old BlackMax motors are very simple motors and can last a long time. Actually suggested that I run it until it gives up or not cost effective to fix. He said I might get another 10 years out of it. But then I'm also thinking if a newer motor comes up for a reasonable price might be good insurance to have that instead...... but is newer necessarily better? Not buying brand new... don't use boat enough and don't want to go that deep in wallet..... decisions decisions !

 

[ThomW]

The old Black Max motors are tough and pretty simple. I have an 1987 200hp that is still going strong. That being said, I did just switch it out for a 2001 saltwater 200hp. It was a nice upgrade.

Does the 88' have oil injector/pump still on it, or has it been removed and plugged and running on mixed gas? That would be one of my biggest concerns...keeping an eye on that if its still in tact. If the 04' is in good shape and at a fair price, why not buy it and keep it until the 88' craps out? Then you have it when you need it. The other thing to look at is the condition of the 04'. Was it used in saltwater too? Has it been flushed regularly? Has the salt taken a toll on it? Obviously the 04'--if in good shape--will be a step up from the 88' 150. All depends on your budget, the cost, and the condition of the two motors. If you feel like you'll kick yourself later if you don't buy it, the buy it and run the 88' this year and see if it makes it through another season!

 

[Buddeee]

The 88' runs mixed gas...no worries about injection / pump. The 04' 200hp has been run in Saltwater all it's life on a well maintained boat. I can get that motor for 3500 CDN dollars. As I mentioned it has 400hrs use and not major work other than regular up keep.