Is it worth it?

TAC_Double · May 31, 2007

Ok,

So I was driving around today and I happend to find an man rolling a old bass boat out of the garage with a for sale sign on it. it was a 1976 Sea something... but anyway, it was powered by a old 85hp evinrude. I am not sure of the year and neither was the owner, he thought it was a 1970's.

He says the motor will fire right up and runs good. Unable to test, had no muffs with me. He's was asking $1500 for the whole package, and dropped it to $1200 in seconds.

Question is, If I can pick this up for $1000... Am I making a good buy? I plan on running it on muffs and test it, also was told I am welcome to do a compression test on it. If it passes is it a good buy?

What would a solid compression be?

It also comes with a 70's 40hp that he said was bad, he was not sure what was wrong with it but good for parts.

I am after the 85hp for my pontoon.

What do you all think?

tashasdaddy · May 31, 2007

Re: Is it worth it?

get the model number, compression 100psi or above, most important that they are equal, with in 10% of each other. is it electric shift. they went to mechanical shift in 1973,

Rudy Brown · May 31, 2007

Re: Is it worth it?

Tac D, If the compression test comes out good, you might have a winner on your hands. Them V4 crossflow johnnyrudes are as bulletproof as a motor can be.

TAC_Double · May 31, 2007

Re: Is it worth it?

I hate to say it... I did not look at what type of shift it was. Was involved in checking out the powerhead and the whole package. I am going to be talking with him tomorrow, so I will find out. I don't want to let this one get away.

I have been looking at a 78 85hp, but they are asking $2200

TAC_Double · Jun 1, 2007

Re: Is it worth it?

Well here is an update. It turns out to be a 1975 85hp, model 85593E.

Did the compression check, all cylinders were within a couple of PSI of 120.

From the looks of the plugs, could use a decarb. And a good freshing up of the plugs and water pump. Started right up with some fresh fuel, and idled very well.

Ended up buying the whole package for $800, sold the boat for $650 an hour later.