Mercruiser 140 in saltwater ok?

[rocket350]

It looks like I will be moving within six months on the coast of NC. There is not a lot of freshwater there. My boat is a 1987 19' CC with a 140 Mercruiser. Everyone tells me to get rid of the boat and get a new one when I get there because salt water will destroy it.

I like my boat. I don't have much money into it, just a lot of time. The boat isn't worth much. Are these 4cyl inboards that bad in salt?

 

[Fishermark]

Re: Mercruiser 140 in saltwater ok?

I boat exclusively in salt water. Flush after each use with muffs and a hose. Some like to use "salt away" - but I never have. You will need to keep on top of other things as well. Keep a can of spray paint handy to touch things up periodically. I also like the anticorrosion spray that sprays on like spray paint - I coat the whole bottom of the engine and oil pan, etc - keeps rust away.

Bottom line - boats were made for the water ... don't be afraid of salt water, just keep on top of the maintenance.

 

[Don S]

Re: Mercruiser 140 in saltwater ok?

No need to go looking for a new boat just because of what "everyone" says, whoever he is.
If you keep it on a trailer, careful flushing with something like Saltaway will make the cooling system of the engine, manifold and riser last longer.
You will need to be a lot more diligent on maintenance, things like pulling the drive yearly, and changing gear lube. Freshwater in the bellows make not be noticed all summer, saltwater will be noticed withing a week, and things go downhill from there very quickly. Just pay attention to sounds and keep it washed down as much as possible after boating.