85hp force replace power head or rebuild pistons

Mideerslayer

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Feb 3, 2010
Messages
37
well I have 30psi on the bottom cylinder and nothing on the other 2.

I took the head off and the cylinder walls look like glass, but the middle piston is broken and chipped around the edge.

So I am now at the cross road, do i buy a used power head or do i swap out the 3 pistons.

I have never done major repairs like this, but i cant afford to pay some one.

What is the easiest way to go replace the power head or just the pistons.

Please take it easy on me i am a little stressed out about this, because the guy i got the boat from told me there was good compression on 2 of the 3 cylinder's and the 3rd one was only off by 15psi.

I am ready for the challenge but scared at the same time

Thanks

Rich
 

jacksonjrs

Cadet
Joined
Feb 19, 2009
Messages
12
Re: 85hp force replace power head or rebuild pistons

well I have 30psi on the bottom cylinder and nothing on the other 2.

I took the head off and the cylinder walls look like glass, but the middle piston is broken and chipped around the edge.

So I am now at the cross road, do i buy a used power head or do i swap out the 3 pistons.

I have never done major repairs like this, but i cant afford to pay some one.

What is the easiest way to go replace the power head or just the pistons.

Please take it easy on me i am a little stressed out about this, because the guy i got the boat from told me there was good compression on 2 of the 3 cylinder's and the 3rd one was only off by 15psi.

I am ready for the challenge but scared at the same time

Thanks

Rich

It really depends on how cheap you can find a used power head (and what condition its in) If you are comfortable with mechanically stuff I would say try and rebuild it. Get a manual and follow the steps and take your time. Also you'll want to figure out what caused these issues in the first place. Otherwise your gonna end up right where your at now.
 

Frank Acampora

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Jan 19, 2007
Messages
12,004
Re: 85hp force replace power head or rebuild pistons

Well, if you can find a good used powerhead it may be a bit cheaper and easier. If you were to overbore all three cylinders and put new pistons in, and if you did all the work (except boring) yourself, then you will spend around 500-600 bucks. Depending upon what boring costs and which aftermarket pistons you buy. If you only need to replace the one piston, then the cost will go way down.

See if you can post a couple of photos with the head off.and we may be able to get a closer estimate.

However, by rebuilding, you have the satisfaction of accomplishing a complex task and you have the peace of mind knowing that the powerhead is, in essence, brand new.

Lastly, do not be afraid of the work. Most is straightforward, most requires only basic tools, and you can get all the help you need here---better than the manual!

And remember: Every powerhead you see for sale will be described as "in excellent condition" and running when last used. The check is in the mail, I'll respect yopu in the morning, you're the only girl I have, and a couple of others I can't print here. You already experienced it: One cylinder only 15 psi off.

So unless you find a powerhead for a steal, rebuilding is the way to go.
 
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