merc. 90hp Reliable YES/NO

izuizme

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
Jul 5, 2003
Messages
97
I'm considering buying a 1989 merc.90hp 3 cyl. Can anyone tell me if this motor has a good history serial # 0B28820 or should I stay away from it... :confused:
 

Wellcraft 89

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Aug 5, 2002
Messages
158
Re: merc. 90hp Reliable YES/NO

Well if it has been well maintained it should be fine. 3cyl don't like to idle smoothly though that has always been their downfall.<br /><br />just my $.02<br />Rich
 

izuizme

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
Jul 5, 2003
Messages
97
Re: merc. 90hp Reliable YES/NO

thanks Wellcraft 89 I thing I'll have the present owner demo the motor while its still on his boat and maybe run a compression test..!! ;)
 

Wellcraft 89

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Aug 5, 2002
Messages
158
Re: merc. 90hp Reliable YES/NO

Well if it has been well maintained it should be fine. 3cyl don't like to idle smoothly though that has always been their downfall.<br /><br />just my $.02<br />Rich
 

bryanredfish

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Apr 22, 2002
Messages
182
Re: merc. 90hp Reliable YES/NO

Based upon personal experience and discussions with other owners, the Classic 90 is one of the best engines Mercury has made over the years. Simple in design, and easy to maintain. It doesn't idle the greatest, but get it above 1200 rpm's and it'll rip!
 

peterbo3

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
Mar 8, 2003
Messages
79
Re: merc. 90hp Reliable YES/NO

I have a 75hp Mariner. Same as the 90hp but with smaller carby system. Top motor. As the other guys say, idles a little rough but who drives at 1000 rpm. These are a huge motor, built tough, highest displacement & weight of their class. If it runs well & a mechanic gives it the OK, buy it.<br />Regards,<br />Peter. ;) ;) ;) :D :D :D
 

paulgp6022

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Jul 27, 2002
Messages
288
Re: merc. 90hp Reliable YES/NO

I have a 2003 75 Mercury. It is the same block except it's carbed differently than the 90hp. The dealer says that the motor isn't over stressed this way. Mercury makes great motors IMHO.
 
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