advice on a reliable used 25 outboard

[ctbs]

Hello all,<br />I'm in the market for a 25hp electric start tiller outboard. I'm looking to spend about $800.00. I have several questions that only the experienced will know;<br />1. I'm not sure what year this price point will bring me, but could you comment on the virtues of the mid 70s through mid 90 s? Is one block more reliable than the other etc.? I plan on buying and holding this engine for many years.<br />2. I understand that around 1982 they started measuring HP at the prop. What % difference is there between a say the trust of 1975 and 1985 25HP outboard?<br />3. In my limited experience, all electric starts were engaged via a key at a counsel. I have a 14' "row boat", and will be needing a tillered engine. Is there a kit which allows for the ES to be engaged from where I'll be sitting at the motor?<br />4. Although i'm thinking John. and Even. if you have time, do you have any Mercury advice for the same questions above?<br />I just want to be smart.<br />Kind regards,<br />Chris

 

[ledgefinder]

Re: advice on a reliable used 25 outboard

IMHO, the 1970s are the equal of the 1990s. Some people in fact prefer 1964 through 1973 because they run straight coil-magneto ignition (no integrated circuit powerpacks to burn out). Outboards, particularly OMCs, are built a bit like airplane engines, and they don't really wear out if treated correctly (and run in fresh water). There are lots of OMC twins from the late 1950s running around. Pick the right motor, and maintain it right, & you can leave it in your will to a grandchild. <br /><br />The horsepower re-rate for MOST of the motors was in 1986, and was around 10-15%. I've seen electric starts on tiller motors (button on the tiller), but not sure about the OMC 25hp. You might try pull-starting though, before you dismiss it - it's pretty easy once you get the feel for it.<br /><br />The Merc 18/25s are OK. but I don't think they hold a candle to the OMC twins...particularly for saltwater use.

 

[JB]

Re: advice on a reliable used 25 outboard

Moving to General Outboard