Opinions on 1985 Mariner 90HP

[Skydiver Scott]

I am looking at a Used Mariner 90HP. I have yet to see it but the pics look good and the owner is claiming very low hours. This I believe is the Tall inline 6 that is just a re-stickered Mercury. From what I have read they are good on HP and might even be under sold in terms of actual HP generated. I will look to do a compression test and make sure I am getting spark on all 6 cylinders but what else should I be looking for. Any specific issues with these engines? Do they seem to be pretty reliable provided you treat them well?

Thanks for the input.

Scott

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Opinions on 1985 Mariner 90HP

That is indeed a restickered Merc. The toughest thing will be to determine it's exact year. Mariners are a bit of a challenge.

The only other major item is the gearcase. Let a little gear oil out. It should be clear brown or perhaps clear blue, if it is new. Dark brown is OK if it is older. White means water infiltration and trouble.