Re: Newer Force outboards - are they OK?
First, do some searches on Force here at the top of the page. You will find many posts here. You will learn a lot about the engines. The newer ones are not as bad as the earlier ones were. <br /><br />The carbs don't carbonize. Carbon builds up in the engine because the engine is bases on older technology and burns dirtier than the competition. This can be alleviated by decarb ing the engine and cleaning the plugs, using the proper oil and fuel, and using a quality fuel additive and carbon preventer such as SEAFOAM . (great stuff) <br /><br />Oil injection has very little or nothing to do with it. Most motors under 40 hp don't have oil injection either, and most do not have the carbon problem unless used primarily for trolling.<br /><br />I run a 1995 70hp Force and have no major problems, but I perform the maintenance religiously. They can be had at bargain prices.<br />Have the engine checked out by a decent mechanic. This includes a warm engine Compression check , stator and electrical, carburaters, lower unit, wiring, power tilt and trim unit, everything else he can think of to check. You will pay for an hour plus of labor, but better to be out $60 than to buy an engine that needs $500 of new parts.<br /><br />All engines like good quality oil. Use a TCW-3 oil for watercooled outboards. They are engineered to burn completely at the engines operating temperature, and provide sufficient lubrication. <br /><br />Do not use high octane gasoline , Use what the manual calls for. All engines are engineered and designed to run differently, and you should follow what the manufacturer recommends. High octane gas works better in high compression engines, but can actually create problems if not recommended. No alcohol in your fuel either. It will eat some of the parts in your carbs. <br /><br />Now, go to the search button at the top of this page, and do a search on ALL the words that appear in bold face type. Then read read read, and make an informed decision.<br /><br />You will notice some of the same names keep showing up in the posts, and you will learn who gives the best advice here on thee best boating forum on the net. <br /><br />Oh yeah, Mercury doesn't make Force any more because it was to expensive to re-design them to meet the new EPA pollution guidelines. <br /><br />Force has its origin in the old West Bend engine company, which was bought by Chrysler, which was bought by USMarine, which was bought by Brunswick, which is the parent company of Mercury Marine.<br /><br />Good Luck.
