Comments on '77 Merc 50hp 4 cyl??

[omahaladysman]

Never mind - the motor sold before I could get to it!

Hey! This is my first post here, altho I've gotten a lot of help just reading ~
right now I have a '72 Johnson 50hp ES on our pontoon. Just spent about $200 on a power module and having the lower unit checked out. Ran it up on the trailer and when we got home the lower unit isn't locked into gear as it shold be with no power to it. This model was only made for a couple of years (from what I've read here) and I'm thinking about replacing it. A guy has a 1977 Merc 50 hp 4cyl advertised for sale.
My question -- in general, would it be any more reliable than the one I've got? I've spent way more time working on/having it worked on than we've spent on the water!
Any words of wisdom would be appreciated. Thanks!

 

[steelespike]

Re: Comments on '77 Merc 50hp 4 cyl??

The electric shift OMC models can be problematic if miss handled.
I had the 77 Merc 500 also have now a 65 500.I've heard from informed people that the the 500 design was the best motor Merc or anyone had built to that point.It's origins go back to the mid 50s.Early models used a distributor that I believe some may be hard to find parts for.I don't know how they have held up through the years or any weak points.I'm sure someone will be along with more info.

 

[omahaladysman]

Re: Comments on '77 Merc 50hp 4 cyl??

Thanks for the info. I think we're going to see how the '72 Johnson runs and hope for the best. Look for me in the repair info forums.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Comments on '77 Merc 50hp 4 cyl??

this will help you understand your lower unit, possible has the worng fluid in the lower, causing it not to go in gear completely.. make sure they put the right fluid in it. if some young guy worked on it he may not know the difference.

http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=166519

 

[omahaladysman]

Re: Comments on '77 Merc 50hp 4 cyl??

tashasdaddy, thanks for the link...I read the thread...I've been using the C-lube in the lower unit, but I wonder - we were on Lake Taneycomo in Missouri, where the water temp stays about 48 deg. F. Does the C-lube thicken up much when it gets cold? Maybe I need to add some kind of "winterizer" if we go back there?