Re: Important Things to Check Out
Hiya & welcome,<br /><br />When I go to look at an outboard;<br /><br />1) I ask them before hand if they're set up to show me it running. <br />2) I take a compression tester, plug wrench, flashlight, multi-bit screwdriver and rag.<br />3) I check compression (ask if that's OK first)<br />4) then I'd want to see how it runs.<br />5) after running I drain a wee bit of oil from the lower unit (looking for water and metal filings on the magnet) again, I ask first and don't make a mess<br />6) During this I'd be asking about the repair/maintenance history (bills? spare parts?), and giving it the general once over.<br /><br />The largest pitfalls are 1) an engine that is either worn out, has a broken ring or other "top end" damage. That's what compression testing can tell you. They can run surprisingly well with one bad cylinder, <br />and 2) a lower unit that is bad or on the way out. (that's why I look for water/filings). Of course if they're trying to hide a problem and the oil is brand new won't see anything. Other prob's could be there (electrical dirty carbs etc) but they don't usually cost ridiculous amounts to fix. Rebuilding a powerhead or lower unit could well cost more than the motor cost you, especially if you pay someone to do it.<br /><br />I'm assuming this is a private sale, not a dealer. (?) Given that you're a newbie to outboards, if you don't have a friend who is very well versed in OB's, you might wanna consider paying a dealer/mechanic to check it over for you before you buy. <br /><br />If from a dealer, they'll often give you some kind of warranty if they're confident it's decent (30, 60, 90 days?)<br /><br />If you buy it, either expect to buy a service manual and get your hands dirty, or budget $ to pay to have the water pump serviced, lower unit lube changed and a general tune up done. I don't mean to scare you off, boats are great but having either mechanical ability or disposible income (or sometimes both) will eventually be required!<br /><br />Also, if you buy don't forget the trailer... pay attention to the condition of the tires and ask when the bearings were last re-packed. Then do it yourself before long (because they always say "just this spring" even if they weren't
)<br /><br />Good luck!
