90 Mercury outboard s/w series info??

[Denismcf]

Just wondering if anybody has an oil injected 90 mercury 2002 saltwater series outboard and whether they are a good motor or not?? Also can anyone tell me where to find engine numbers on these **** things so I can check if motor is ok(Ie not stolen??)Also can you take the oil inj off and feed pre mixed into it as I have heard that if it stuffs up it will blow the engine??

 

[bryanredfish]

Re: 90 Mercury outboard s/w series info??

I have a 2002 motor that you are describing, and it's noisy, but absolutely bulletproof. It's one of Merc's most reliable designs -- simple and easy to work on. The oil injection on these motors is extremely reliable, and I've not heard of them gumming up.<br /><br />Good luck.

 

[Denismcf]

Re: 90 Mercury outboard s/w series info??

Thanks for the info any ideas on the serial numbers??

 

[steam_mill]

Re: 90 Mercury outboard s/w series info??

I've got a 2003 90 hp freshwater. I think it is basically the same motor with less corrosion protection.<br /><br />I'm very happy with this motor except that it is a little rough running to about 1400 rpm. This is due to the 3 cyl design. It is also a little sensitive to being started. Took me a couple of weeks to figure out best way to start.<br /><br />It replaces a 50 hp evinrude. I actually get better mileage now and it has loads of power. I can cruise in a 17' bowrider with 5 adults and I still go above WOT. I had to get a new 19" prop. Use the 17" for skiing. I can get over 45 MPH!<br /><br />Tx.<br /><br />Joe

 

[lund17]

Re: 90 Mercury outboard s/w series info??

With no intention of sidetracking thread. Steam_mill please let me know your method for starting. I've not had mine long enough to develop a system. I find it very finicky. Like you I absolutely love it after that and restarts when warm are instantaneous. E-mail me if you would like. Thanks. ntassell@nycap.rr.com

 

[Hooty]

Re: 90 Mercury outboard s/w series info??

Hey Denis,<br />Look on top of the starboard side cylinders for a shiney welch plug. It should have the serial nr. stamped in it.<br /><br />c/6<br />Hooty

 

[Denismcf]

Re: 90 Mercury outboard s/w series info??

Thanks again for the info sounds like a great motor! hope to put her in the boat soon!

 

[steam_mill]

Re: 90 Mercury outboard s/w series info??

My bulb is always hard, so I rarely pump it. I had a boat with two six gallon tanks. I would pump it at the beginning of the season and never pump it again and go through at least 20 6 gallon tanks.<br /><br />I then advance the cold start throttle about one third (same as regular throttle but you press the round part to leave the LU in neutral).<br /><br />I then press the key in and crank the engine. I've paused sometimes when the key is pressed in etc.<br /><br />The boat always starts. It just does not start as easily as my 30 year old evinrude. Once warm, it always starts easily.<br /><br />Sometimes it is running just after starting and will die with a backfire.<br /><br />I can avoid the backfire sometimes if I choke it a little more.<br /><br />I probably only have a proble with one in ten cold starts.<br /><br />From what I have read, this engine is a little finicky to start. Once running though, it runs like a champ and I find it quiet for a 2 stroke.<br /><br />I was just used to my '72 50 hp evinrude that would always start. I would give it choke and turn the key and it alway caught and ran smoothly.<br /><br />How do you start yours?<br /><br />Joe

 

[lund17]

Re: 90 Mercury outboard s/w series info??

Originally posted by steam_mill:<br />[QB]My bulb is always hard, so I rarely pump it. <br /><br />Don't be braggin' now! My bulb doesn't stay hard so I'll replace it in the spring. I don't have a system: it's usually hit or miss. I normally begin by advancing cold throttle 1/3 and push key in for about 5 sec. It kicks but will only stay running if I throttle up. I'm nervous about over-revving a cold engine. If it stalls at this point it's a bear to re-start. Like you, I love the way it runs and re-starts when warm. It's my first big outboard so I don't know noise wise but since I did'nt notice it must be quiet! LOL Really am looking forward to many good years. Thanks for the reply. I'll print it out and try in the spring.

 

[lund17]

Re: 90 Mercury outboard s/w series info??

BTW Denis, After reading all the posts here about disabling oil injection systems I spoke to my dealer about it. I trust their mechanics and opinion based on previous experience and they are not a Merc. exclusive dealer so I believe they don't need to be blindly brand loyal. I was assured that the oil injection on these motors are extremely reliable and I feel it would be silly to disable such a helpful mechanism.

 

[steam_mill]

Re: 90 Mercury outboard s/w series info??

neil2fish:<br /><br />Your starting procedure is pretty much the same as mine. I really don't think that there is a problem.....<br /><br />Now if only Mercury (or any body else) could figure out a way to use this motor over the winter on my frozen lake....<br /><br />Yeah, I've got cabin fever in a bad way...<br /><br />Although I am going boating next week (carribean cruise....)<br /><br />Joe