Re: I need to make a decision
Armando..... If you're thinking about going into all that work and expense simply due to a rusted steering arm, I'd strongly suggest you take another look at that arm.<br /><br />Those steering arms do gather a great amount of what is considered surface rust, but I have yet to find one that really required replacing due to that condition.<br /><br />I have always, after inspecting a rusted arm thoroughly, chipped away at it with various punches, chisels, etc in order to remove the rust build up. After which I'd clean it with acetone, then coat it with "Green" Zink Chromate primer which is available at any marine dealership in a spray can. When the primer is thoroughly dry, I'd coat it with spray paint of whatever color is required.<br /><br />The ones I've redone as above are still running strong. Perhaps you have one that is rusted to a point that I have yet to come across, but at any rate, give the above some consideration.
Before replacing the mid section on my 1987, 200 HP Johnson outboard, I want to make sure that the power head is worth dumping $900 into. Compression is 75 PSI all around and the motor is running good. Except, the steering arm is completely rusted and needs replacing immediately. The mechanic is recommending replacing the entire mid section instead since it will be faster to repair and less expensive since we will be taking a chance if rusty bolts breaks and this may delay the repair and the repair will be much more expensive due to his labor. My concern is, that with the compression reading of 75 PSI, is it worth replacing the mid section or better to replace the whole motor? Thank you for your help.
