1998 Mercury Mariner 75HP

[Big Fish Billy]

Well sold my StarCraft with a Force 40hp and am looking at a 1998 Sea Pro 17' with a 75hp Merc Mariner. I was wondering what everyone thinks about the reliability of these outboards and if there are any key problems I should look for. The guy says it was well maintained with "an open checkbook." And only used in fresh water (don't they all) My checkbook won't be that fruitful, so trying to get the scoop in advance.

Thanks,

Bill

 

[1nebel0]

Re: 1998 Mercury Mariner 75HP

Pay to have a compression and leakdown test done...will tell you the condition of the rings and cylinders...then and only then will you know how well it was maintained.. I started a business doing lower unit testing along with electrical testing and the above testing as so many people take other people's word on how well their motor was maintained... I have a number of those motors in my garage to remind me of my learnings to not trust people....Lastly to those reading.........Never buy a motor sitting on the ground or pallet having someone tell you how great it ran before they took it off...Testing can be done without it being mounted on a stand or boat as long as you can drag the cowling off....got a couple of those motors in the garage as well...Good Luck

 

[Big Fish Billy]

Re: 1998 Mercury Mariner 75HP

Thanks, I'll do that myself, just wondering if there were any inherent problems with that particular engine. Bill

 

[tyst67]

Re: 1998 Mercury Mariner 75HP

Put 90hp carbs on it! The 75hp and the 90hp are the exact same motor but the 75 carb has a restricted venturi! the reed cage may be different too but they are just bolt on parts

 

[BatDaddy1887]

Re: 1998 Mercury Mariner 75HP

....great tips on this iboats thread.