Looking at purchasing classic Mercury outboard

[fishingfrenzy]

Good evening, I've been looking to purchase a 70's - 90's Mercury outboard in the 50 - 100 hp range. Is there a HP or model year that has proven reliability? Two on my radar are a 197? 80 HP, and a 1979 50 HP. Both Thunderbolts. The 80 HP would be mine for $100, the 50 for around $300. Do not have compression numbers. Both have been sitting for a few years. Either? Neither? Find a different/newer model? Many thanks.

 

[tpenfield]

Check the availability of parts for the particular year/model that you are considering. The farther back you go, the fewer parts are available. I have a 1969 Mercury 7.5 hp and quite a few of the parts are NLA. I assume with an older outboard, you plan on doing your own repairs?

 

[fishingfrenzy]

I can check on parts availability. Mercury motors from that era seem to be a dime a dozen in Minnesota, so I believe I would be able to find another motor as a parts motor if needed.

I am more concerned about buying a "strong" engine that is reliable from this era. I know OMC had a great reputation in the 70's and 80's for their 3 cylinder models, but I haven't heard too much about that generation of Mercury engines.