switch or not

[jasonmmoore]

i have a 1991 17.5 foot bayliner capri rated for a 70hp max engine, it has a 1985 50 hp mercury on it. i just bought a 1964 mercury 650 for fifty bucks. it runs good but would it be worth my time to switch these motors? will there be much difference in performance you think?

 

[Mi duckdown]

Re: switch or not

Most likley NOT. In 85 the motor was rated at the prop 50 hp.
In 64 it was rated at the head 65 hp. Don't know what loss is to the prop.
MY .02 keep the 50.
Parts for a 1964 are like hens teeth.

 

[usskydvr]

Re: switch or not

Agree with ducky. Not worth it.

 

[backyard mechanic]

Re: switch or not

I agree too.... old technology verses newer... better economy with the 1985 electronic ignition 50HP. The 1964 Merc 650 has standard ignition. The "maybe" of a higher MPH/better performance is slim- certainly not worth swapping unless the 50 is on it's last leg.

Remember weight and HP. That 650 will weigh more so are you really gaining or (more realistically) loosing? Weight verses HP is applicable but going backwards in technology is not smart IMO.

Seriously, what was the real reasoning you made the purchase? It's a great back up motor but I wouldn't swap out until your 50 is dead.

 

[bktheking]

Re: switch or not

It just wouldn't look right on the boat would be my reason, if it were me i'd find a 60's runabout and put the 650 on it, the 650's back then were bulletproof and had a pretty simple ignition system.

 

[jasonmmoore]

Re: switch or not

thanks guys, the fifty horse runs fine i just thought it was a little small for the boat. it was on there when i got it.the 650 also runs good but has no power trim or any thing.the reason i bought it was that this guy was cleaning up around his place and offered me the boat(an old glastron) motor, trailer, with a new jack and a new gas tank and line which had never been used for fifty bucks.it was a half mile from my house so i thought "how could i go wrong". btw boat had no title.