80HP red band advice and re-build

[Moody Blue]

Hope to get your thoughts on a 80hp red-band Merc that is currently in pieces. The motor is "free" with the boat I'm looking to buy. Most likely a 1970 and it is a 4 cyl., thats all I know. Owner claims he tore it down because it was hard to start, but otherwise "ran fine".

What are your thoughts on this model/vintage motor? Good engine? Worth putting some money into? What would be the approach for a general rebuild? Is it possible to upgrade the old style ignition system? I've worked quite a bit on smaller motors so am not worried about getting my hands dirty if its worth the trouble.

THanks

 

[AMD Rules]

Re: 80HP red band advice and re-build

Very unlikely it was tore down simply because it "was hard to start"....there's more to the story fer sure.

The 4 cyl merc is a good motor overall. Uprgrading to an electronic igntion is not economically viable, but the older ignitions are just fine. Parts are getting a bit more difficult to find as time passes.

What is your intended purpose for the motor? As to whether its worth the investment, that's too subjective to say. Given that it is free, its quite possible that it 'might' be a wise investement.

Is it torn down completely, or only partially?

 

[Moody Blue]

Re: 80HP red band advice and re-build

Yeh I have my doubts about the hard starting story too.
Motor is mostly intact, but the peripherals have been stripped off the powerhead. No carbs, starter, linkages etc. The water jacket(?) cover has also been removed. Owner has bagged and tagged every nut bolt screw and part so re-assembly will be easier than if it was all in a box. Apparently the lower unit had new seals put in it last year.
If nothing else I could part out the motor for a few bucks towards a replacement.

 

[*EdC*]

Re: 80HP red band advice and re-build

Moody Blue,
I am currently doing a complete rebuild of a '69 800. Having a blast doing it! Yes, some parts are getting difficult to get.. but not impossible. In my opinion, it's is a well engineered motor. Also, it not so new that you need a degree in computer science, and just old enough for a back yard mechanic (like me) can still work on it!

EdC

 

[AMD Rules]

Re: 80HP red band advice and re-build

If it landed in my garage for free, I'd start by evaluating the cylinders/piston for signs of damage. This can be acomplished by looking through the intake ports. Check for stuck rings. If all is well, I'd reassemble enought to re-mount the starter and do a simple compression test. From there... decisions can be made as to whether its worth pursuing further.

General condition of the motor ie. signs of abuse?

Free, is an excellent starting price for a motor project. I've started similar projects with a lot more than that invested.

Good luck.