Looking at 1991 Johnson 200 any tips?

[westsail32]

Looking at buying a boat with a 1991 Johnson 200 hp outboard. Seller had it rebuilt last year. He also changed the fuel pump on it. Supposed to check compression this weekend and take it out for a test run.

What should compression be?

Any other things I should look for?

Is the motor trouble?

Thanks

 

[Crosbyman]

look for another deal... Me...I would keep away from any humpty dumpty stuff but opinions differ. Price may justify the purchase for the boat and trailer alone. Engine wise well it is coin flip.... the engine is 32 years old and lots of shops won't touch it if it ever needs repair.

jmho...

 

[saltchuckmatt]

Being freshly rebuilt I'm going to say 130 to 140 lbs but you wonder about things like the gearcase. Might want to have your own mechanic give in the "once-over"

 

[Faztbullet]

Have them show you the receipt from rebuild. If it dont list new pistons it was just a refresh not a rebuild. Motor will be lucky to have over 110psi when cranking as usually around 90-95psi.

 

[westsail32]

Have them show you the receipt from rebuild. If it dont list new pistons it was just a refresh not a rebuild. Motor will be lucky to have over 110psi when cranking as usually around 90-95psi.

He said the pistons and rings were replaced and the head was reworked. I will ask for the paperwork. I am concerned about buying a motor this old but at the same time I cannot afford a boat with a new motor on it. The price is good, comes with a double axle easy load trailer and many other things. Thanks for all the tips. Keep em coming.

 

[Chris1956]

That motor will be a multi carb, 2 cycle engine with or without oil injection. When maintained they are pretty good. However as was said, you will likely need to do your own maintenance and repair, as shops will be reticent to work on them.

Compression and gearcase health are the two most important items, as they are the costliest to fix.

If the shop rebuild work was recent and the carbs were cleaned, ign timing set, etc, she should be good for a few years, if you grease her fittings, change her grease and keep fresh fuel in her.