How much do you think a 1974 Evinrude 85 HP is worth, and other questions?

[Evinrude_NooB]

A couple of weeks ago my Force 50 overheated, http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=575958. In testing and discussions with very helpful members of this forum, it seems that the pistons and rings might be fried.

So I've tossing around the idea of either rebuilding the Force 50 or buying a 'new' used outboard. Having looked up prices for parts for the rebuild, I've decided that it's probably worth the cost to buy another used motor. I've found a 1974 Evinrude 85 HP for $450. That is a little bit bigger than the Force 50 and is definitely rated higher than what is stated for the 14' Bayliner I have.

My question is whether or not $450 is a good price for the Evinrude? And would it fit on the 14' Bayliner with my current controls or would I need new controls?

I've also found another Force 50 for sale, asking price is $400. The appeal of getting another Force 50 is that I already have a parts engine if I need it. However, I would prefer not to think about having another engine break down. I could probably get it for a little bit less than asking price but the owner lives 3 hours away.

What do you think of the 1974 Evinrude 85 HP? Is it reliable? How about gas efficiency? Would this motor even fit on my 14' Bayliner?

Thank you all.

 

[mark1961]

Re: How much do you think a 1974 Evinrude 85 HP is worth, and other questions?

Your Bayliner will have a hp rating.....that info will be on the capacity plate fitted by the manufacturer.....if the 85hp exceeds it you would be well advised to forget about purchasing it and look around for another motor that does not. If you are satisfied with fitting another 50hp the Force would be an easy swapover and you would have some spare parts.

 

[coolbri70]

Re: How much do you think a 1974 Evinrude 85 HP is worth, and other questions?

i have the 1979 version, very reliable, very thirsty, gas is expensive but it allways gets me where i want to go

 

[bonzoscott]

Re: How much do you think a 1974 Evinrude 85 HP is worth, and other questions?

That Motor is too much for 14 feet. I had an 85 Evinrude on a 15 foot Crestliner. The boat was rated for 70 hp max. It did very well - 42 MPH, but the thrust and weight destroyed the transom. I think you'd be better off with a 60 or 70 HP three cylinder (less weight).

 

[Evinrude_NooB]

Re: How much do you think a 1974 Evinrude 85 HP is worth, and other questions?

I think I'm going to have to agree with everyone that says that 85 HP is too much for the 14 footer. I did not really give it much thought about the added stress on the transom. That and the added weight means that I can't carry as much stuff and people.