Looking to buy a used outboard?

[dabull22]

Im looking to buy a used outboard for my Dinghy. Im looking to spend $400 max for something used. Does anyone know if there is a list of used outboards with good/bad track records?(i.e. which ones to stay away from) Any info would be awesome!
Thanks!

 

[jbjennings]

Re: Looking to buy a used outboard?

Almost any johnson or evinrude small outboard is a good motor, and the only brand that I would consider in your price range. The more horsepower you get, the higher it will be. I would not buy other brands because some of them are unreliable, and some of the ones that are fairly reliable may require special tools to work on. I don't prefer the '58 10 horsepower, or the 9.5hp OMC's, but they are good motors just the same. My favorite low budget motor are the '50s and '60s OMC's from 5.5 to 18 horsepower. If you look hard you can find one in your price range that has good lower unit seals and good ignitions that will last many years. Most will need work on the carbs, ignitions, water pump impellers, and lower unit seals; so that's something you should ask the seller about.
Exactly what horsepower are you after?
JBJ

 

[dabull22]

Re: Looking to buy a used outboard?

im looking for something between 5 and 7.5 HP. Just something I can scoot around the upper Chesapeake tributaries in.

 

[jonesg]

Re: Looking to buy a used outboard?

I bought a 1959 johnson 10hp $120, seller said compression is good but it needs coils, I replaced the whole ignition system for less than $80 and did the water pump $15. Runs good now.

If they test run it for you it will probably cost a bit more.
The oldies just keep going.

 

[OptsyEagle]

Re: Looking to buy a used outboard?

There are lots of the 5.5Hp Johnson / Evinrudes around that pretty much run like the day they came off the assembly line. I would look for 1959 or higher to avoid the need for a special fuel tank. Just my opinion.

 

[The original Smokey]

Re: Looking to buy a used outboard?

Look for an Evinrude or Johnson 6 hp. Built from '66 '79. Quiet, reliable, light. Make sure to hear it run and verify water pump operation before purchase. You should be able to find one of these for $250-$350 in good running condition.
1980 - up Evinrude Johnson 6 or 7.5 hp. Same here, but with electronic ignition. $300-$500.

Don't buy an older motor if you don't want to repair or maintain it.