Johnson versus merc

[Indymike]

I realize this is a loaded question but I would like some opinions comparing 73 johnson 115 to early 90's merc 115 4 cyl. Have the jonny (needs completepowerhead overhaul) looking at at a merc.<br />compression good on merc. Money about the same either way I go....Any thoughts?<br /><br />Thanks,<br />Mike

 

[JB]

Re: Johnson versus merc

Moving to Outboard Non-repair Discussion.

 

[ledgefinder]

Re: Johnson versus merc

The late80/early90 Merc 3&4 cylinders are good motors. I'd take it over the 1973 115, absolutely, particularly since you're running in freshwater. Note the Merc, being after the 1986 horsepower re-rate, will have significantly more pop that the 1973 115. I have a 1989 Mariner 75hp (3 cylinder version of the Merc 115 4 cylinder), and it runs just a hair slower than a 1974 115 Johnson on the same hull.<br /><br />The Merc trim & tilt works a good deal better than the systems on the 1970s OMCs as well.<br /><br />How is it that they're equally priced?? <br /><br />The oil injection system on the Merc is pretty good, but have it checked out before you use it. I understand it's smart to replace the vinyl oil lines as well.

 

[Indymike]

Re: Johnson versus merc

Price is complete rebuild compared to buying used running motor.<br /><br />Mike

 

[BillP]

Re: Johnson versus merc

Rebuilt vs used? Not even a question that I'd go with the rebuilt motor. If both were used I'd still go omc.

 

[JasonJ]

Re: Johnson versus merc

Its apples and oranges in a way. They are both good motors. Going with the rebuild would give you a fresh powerhead to be certain, but the newer Merc, if in excellent overall condition, is just that: Newer. You have newer/better tilt & trim, newer lower unit, newer everything. On the Johnson you have a rebuilt powerhead sitting on top of a dramatically older assembly. My personal bias towards Merc will always dictate my belief that Merc is superior to Johnson, but in reality I feel that if the merc checks out fully, you are better off with the Merc. A rebuilt powerhead has too many variables. Did they do it right? how long will it last? You are always better off with a good running motor that has not been dug into, a rebuild can always be botched by the guy who is thinking about what his girlfriend is doing with the gas man or whatever. Seen it too many times. Good luck either way....

 

[Indymike]

Re: Johnson versus merc

The Jonny is not yet rebuilt , that is for me to do still. Even if I buy the merc I will probably go ahead with the fix on the jonny.<br /><br />Mike

 

[walleyehed]

Re: Johnson versus merc

a rebuild can always be botched by the guy who is thinking about what his girlfriend is doing with the gas man or whatever. Seen it too many times.

Finally!!....Now I know who my kid belongs to!!!!!

 

[walleyehed]

Re: Johnson versus merc

I'm an OMC man to the bone, but for other reasons, I'd lean torwards the Merc.....