Mercury Outboard ?

[Sailor77.7]

I have a 1969 Mercury Thunderbolt 800 2 stroke. I was told that this engine is primarily supposed to be used in fresh water. It was not intended for salt water use. As such, it will go to pot quickly and basicly self destruct then my only option will be to replace it with a new engine. A few guys who work around engines said this.

I would like to know what the old salts on here, who know more than most have to say about this. Is it a true statement? Is it not meant for saltwater use or is it ok to use in saltwater as long at it gets flushed out after use? What are the pro's and cons of using it this way?

Sincerely,

sailor77.7

 

[Scaaty]

Re: Mercury Outboard ?

BS..use it in any water..just fresh water flush after ya pull it out whatever water it was in...just like any other motor..
I have a 135 72 just rebuilt crank up..broke in in salt (can't help it..live on Puget Sound).
Get a "Saltaway" dispenser kit...worth its weight in getting salt neutralized in the motor...

 

[Chinewalker]

Re: Mercury Outboard ?

Mercury was very slow to adopt stainless steel for shafts, fasteners, etc. The weakest spot is right under the waterpump housing - where flushing does nothing. The driveshaft will rust there, right at the upper gearcase seal, allowing water into the gearcase. Keep an eye on your gearcase oil. Use lots of NevRSeize and grease on anything your remove or replace. Hope you never have to disassemble the whole thing to rebuild it again...
- Scott

 

[Sailor77.7]

Re: Mercury Outboard ?

Scatty & Chinewalker,

Thanks for the great information. I pretty much thought they were pulling my chain but I figured it could not help to ask just to make sure. As far as "saltaway" and "Nevrseize" where can I get them? I also live in the Puget Sound (Whidbey Island) and am working on my boat. It has some issues dealing with water logged foam and such that I am working on. you can check my posts in the "myprojects" pages under "restoring 1970 Lasvegas". I use the same handle there as I do here. Thanks once again for the information.

Sincerely,

sailor77.7

 

[Scaaty]

Re: Mercury Outboard ?

Scott brought up a good point I didn't consider..(as it being an older motor). It mostly depends where the motor has spent most of its time. Trouble is salt eats everything if ya boat in the Sound..goes with the territory.
Saltaway and Marine grease at any marine store..grease everything good!

 

[Sailor77.7]

Re: Mercury Outboard ?

Chinewalker,

Where would I find the gearcase and other things that you mentioned in your post to me? I am a newbe on here and with marine motors. This is my very first boat and I am actually having lots of fun learning alot with it. I look forward to hearing tons more from all of you on this.

Vr,

sailor77.7