How to check "hours" on a motor

[cartedd]

I've read several posts about the operating hours on outboards. Is there a meter on the motor that indicates this, or is this just an estimate of total run-time? I'm interested in an Evinrude 50hp 4-stroke and, if it does have a meter, where do I look to find it? Thanks from a newby.

 

[Mumblerone]

Re: How to check "hours" on a motor

I don't believe you'll find a hour meter on the motor. The're usually on the dash at the helm. Not hard to install. Can be purchased at any marine store. Keep in mind the average boater uses his boat less than 50 hours per year. The first year of ownership is twice that. So as a rule of thumb, if a boat is four years old, I figure about 250 hours. The catch is, if the person is a die hard fisherman or charter Captain, all bets are off. Usually hour meters are used for maintenence...generally yearend is sufficient. An hour meter can help or hurt the resale value.

 

[DJ]

Re: How to check "hours" on a motor

cartedd,<br /><br />If that Evin. 50 is fuel injected, it has an internal clock in the engine management processor.<br /><br />If not, you'll have to add an hour meter. Simple to do, cheap and a very good idea.