Choice Between Two 15HP Engines

[drivadesl]

I'm going to look at two engines today from a private seller who owns both. Old guy (75+), lives on a lake. Seems like a decent guy, sort of old school thinker. Likes to fish and has a few boats, hence multiple engines.

First engine is mid to late 90's Johnson 15HP, Electric start, LS, tiller. He bought it used not running, and had it rebuilt by local mechanic. Claims he put $900 into it. Said it has new rings, engine seals, impeller and is running perfect with perfect compression. Wants $900.

Second engine is Evinrude 1975, 15 HP LS that he also bought used back in the 70s, but didn't put many hours on as a kicker. Was originally pull start, but converted to electric start when he sold the boat, and moved it to a 14'. Wants $600.

Want to keep one of the engines for himself preferrably the Rude, assumedly since he can't get as much $$ for it. But will sell either.

Says he can demonstrate both engines. Plan on doing compression test and running both. Assuming both in good shape, is there any great difference between the two in terms of parts availabilty, or design that I would tip one in favor over the other? Thanks.

 

[raczekp1]

Re: Choice Between Two 15HP Engines

first try co check compresion, second check is to try Lower Unit colour oil.
75' model has ignition based on points/condensers
models after 92' looks nice but i would choos this before 92'(espaecialy 77-92)-called "bolet proof"

parts for both are egual to get/(are all avilable)

 

[AlTn]

Re: Choice Between Two 15HP Engines

I hope The Machinist happens along as he has a vast amount of experience with these motors as do others on the forum. I can say this from my own experience with a 1978 9.9 evinrude...you are going in with the right attitude. Compression numbers tell a lot, I'd also suggest just barely cracking the lower drain screw on the L/U to check for water. How much play, if any, in the propshaft when you tug on the prop? Any signs of overheating on the heads or block< discolored or blistered paint>? Insist on running both in the water if he lives on the lake should be no big deal. I'd certainly want to with his asking prices. When he converted the '76, did he also convert it to a charge coil and rectifier in order to charge the battery? Go to marineengine.com and compare what different components cost for each engine...the ignition and charging system components for 90"s are not cheap. Just generally have an idea of what you're getting into. Do you know the i n t r o d u c e s means of determining the year from the model no.? The early 90's, thru 92 I think, used a powerpack with the trigger sensor incorporated into it, and this is under the f/w. They only used this setup for 4 years, so it may have been a weak link ignition-wise, I don't know. I know they had problems with early plastic top carbs warping and cracking. If he spent $900 on it, I'd think he kept the paperwork. The 76 is a points type ignition, how comfortable are you in dealing with those? Bottom line, it's your decision. I know of a shop here that had a 77 9.9 w/electric start and were asking $750...this hp range of motor seems to be very popular and easy to sell....good hunting.

 

[Rick.]

Re: Choice Between Two 15HP Engines

Great idea's above. My only caution is are you actually wanting a long shaft. At the prices mentioned this isn't a fire sale so make sure you get what you want. Best of luck. Rick.