1989 Force 125 safe to run?

[NEKFORCE]

Hello,
I have been given a force 125 that needs motor work. I have no problem rebuilding this engine and getting it going. My question is
Is it safe to put it in neutral and turn the engine over for a compression test when not in the water? The same question also applies to running it for a few seconds to test it once its been rebuilt? I know that if you want to run it for any length of time you can put the water flushing miffs on it and hook it up to a hose, but at the moment its still winter here so i don't want water in it. I just want to make sure i can do a compression test without ruining something.
Thanks.
This my first boat and it was free so I am pretty excited about it.

 

[Tnstratofam]

First let me say :welcome:. You've come to the best place on the web for everything boats!

Turning the engine over to do a compression test should be no problem. Running it for a few seconds without water could damage the impeller. However you should put a new impeller in it as the last part of your rebuild anyway. Then only run the motor with it in the water or with muffs attached. Also if you don't have one you should pick up a factory manual.

 

[NEKFORCE]

Thanks,
When doing a compression test I intend to pull the plug wires and crank it over with the key, just to clarify. So I hope that would not do any damage turning over at that speed. I have a "Dealer Only" repair manual that also came with the boat. I will need to see what type of muffs will fit this motor.
What the price on the impeller? I know it was changed by the previous owner not that long ago.

 

[nrosseau]

Impeller it self can run about 12 bucks I would suggest getting a kit with the seals and top housing and possibly lower housing depends on if water is getting in the gear case it not. that will altogether cost about ~$120 maybe more. Just the seals and top housing with impeller cost ~60 bucks give or take.

 

[jerryjerry05]

DON'T turn over with the key.
​Unless you ground the plug leads.

​You can blow the packs if not grounded.

​To run without water, just drop the lower unit.

​You should change the impeller anyway.

You can get an impeller for $8 up to 50.