what is special about a merc 60hp bigfoot?

[chrisg]

Siverfish had indicated to me that the ideal setup is a 60hp bogfoot with a elephant prop?

I found one, so I want to know what's special about that Vs the regular 60HP Merc?
Thanks

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: what is special about a merc 60hp bigfoot?

Simply that the Bigfoot lower unit will accept a larger diameter prop which is very beneficial to pontoons boats..

 

[Silvertip]

Re: what is special about a merc 60hp bigfoot?

The difference between a BigFoot 60 and a regular Merc 60 (in three cylinder engines) is that the lower unit is actually from a 75-90 HP motor which has a 2.33:1 gear set whereas the standard lower unit is a much smaller unit and is fitted with 1.83:1 gear set. The deeper gears allow the same engine to twist a larger diameter prop with more pitch than the standard unit. This is especially important on workboats and boats like a pontoon that require lots of push. Elephant ear props have very large blade area and are quite rounded when compared to regular props. That design allows better reverse thrust for docking maneuvers as well as providing good forward thrust.

 

[chrisg]

Re: what is special about a merc 60hp bigfoot?

Thanks, I posted on the merc outboard forum about what I should look for / check out when I go see this motor, its a '99. any help would be appeciated.

 

[octane]

Re: what is special about a merc 60hp bigfoot?

like others said, the bigfoot bottom part is stronger, but the antiventillation plate is also bigger.

http://mercurymarine.com/engines/outboards/fourstrokes/pontoonpower.php

 

[Silvertip]

Re: what is special about a merc 60hp bigfoot?

If this engine is on a boat, obviously take a test drive. If it is not on a boat, insist on a compression check that you actually observe. Hook it up to muffs and hear it run. Pull the lower unit drain plug and check for metal filings and water. Milky looking lub indicates water intrusion.

 

[chrisg]

Re: what is special about a merc 60hp bigfoot?

I checked the LU oil, its clear with no filings, I can check the compression, but there is currently no way to start it. (He does not have the cables, nor tank.) and the motor fuel fitting is differnt then mine.

He bought it new in '98, but the motor SN indicates '99 ( so it was an early '99) The motor looks visually fine (LU has no dings, cowling has scratches but that is is.) No prop.

I wonder if the prop on my 115 would work ( you say its the same LU as a 90 ( which I read somewhere is the old 115).

Debating on talking him down, IF compression is OK. and install it on my toon myself ( rent a hoist). Marina want 360 to install it! My cables will plug in, so dont see why it would cost so much to install.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: what is special about a merc 60hp bigfoot?

All you need for a compression test is a battery and a pair of jumper cables. Connect one cable to the engine block. Touch the other end directly to the starter or the large terminal on the starter solenoid. An engine that I cannot hear run is a junk engine in my view unless you get a warranty in writing. You are simply taking the owners word for it. When an owner says it runs fine it usually doesn't -- which is why it's for sale. Yup -- I'm a skeptic and I've never been burned. If this is a marina and they really want to sell the engine they can run the engine for you.

 

[chrisg]

Re: what is special about a merc 60hp bigfoot?

Thanks all. Sounds like it wont be that simple to check the compression without turning it over via the starter ( I thought you could turn it via the starter rope ( with all the plugs removed). I will have a marina check it out. they say they can hook up cables. they will also give it a good look over. $100.00 to do that.

I could take it to the marina where my toon is, but that is a ways away. The seller know the marina and is willing to take it up there. Sounds like Silvertip has experiance buying/sell, I will send a PM askng some buying tips.