What's it worth?

[Robert Harris]

This is probably a stupid question, but I am new to boating and need some straight answers.I have a Johnson 1980 115 V4.The motor needs work to say the least.Took it to a dealer wrench to do an overall check(compression,pressure and vacumn,..etc)The word is the powerhead needs to be totally rebuilt.I could probably do the work myself minus the bore,but is it worth it?<br />Quite a few people have almost convinced me to cut my losses and repower.Mercury or foreign make has been the most recommended.I can't afford new,so it will have to be used or rebuilt.What would my current motor be worth if anything in it's current condition?<br />Thanks for the time.

 

[plywoody]

Re: What's it worth?

If your resources are limited, and are going for a rebuilt or used engine, you may as well rebuild the one you have, especially if you are confident you can do the work.<br /><br />At least tear it down and see what all is wrong, and what it would take to put it back together.<br /><br />John

 

[vinney]

Re: What's it worth?

Great engine to rebuild and learn on. All the parts to rebuild this engine are avalible after market. Make sure you do it correctly. Bore and hone all cylinders,change all bearings and seals. Change thermos and impeller. I always change the cd boxes on a rebuild this old. Make sure you use a machine shop that knows how to clearance the after market pistons. Some are cast and some are forged that is the hardest part of this job(the machining). Make sure you clean the carbs and treat the fuel if the boat is going to sit any length of time(a month or more). If you do it right you will be amazed how well it runs. Vinney

 

[Chinewalker]

Re: What's it worth?

I Agree with Vinney. Your engine in current condition is only worth a few hundred for parts. Rebuilt it'd probably fetch over a grand (at least up in these parts), but you'll put $600-$800 into it. My bet is you won't want to sell it when you're done, as those motors are great runners - real stump pullers.<br /><br />Start by tearing it down and seeing what you've got to work with. If the crankshaft is shot, you'd probably do better to part out the motor. If the crank is good and the block hasn't already been bored out at some point before, get yourself a manual and start rebuilding!<br /><br />- Scott

 

[wilde1j]

Re: What's it worth?

What specifically did the mechanic find? Low compression, etc.? Lean running in one or more cylinders? <br /><br />If there is an incipient failure brewing, you need to know the cause BEFORE any rebuild effort, or you will likely have the same deal again.

 

[Robert Harris]

Re: What's it worth?

Thanks all for the advice.The only thing I don't want to do is dump a lot of money into something that is that old that is going to be prone to future problems.Oh well, I guess that is the gamble you take with outboards, huh?<br />The mechanic said everything is pretty much original, no major work done to it.One piston has a partial meltdown which damaged the cylinder enough to have to do 30 over bore.The other three are eggshaped on top(reason for total rebuild).Lower unit looks good, no water or shavings.Good spark on all cylinders.He said I would have 2 grand in it to get it running good.I don't know if he meant including his labor or not.<br />Thanks for the time.I'm learning a lot from these forums.Something you could never get from the dealer wrench. <br /><br />PS:Will boring 30 over make this even more of a gas hog?

 

[Hooty]

Re: What's it worth?

You'll never notice a .030 overbore. Did you observe compression test, scored cylinder, etc? Get yourself a factory and get into that thing. If you have any problems, all the answers are right here on the board.<br /><br />g'luck & c/6<br /><br />Hooty

 

[Hooty]

Re: What's it worth?

That last post should read "factory manual".<br /><br />c/6<br /><br />Hooty

 

[ob]

Re: What's it worth?

Or just get a factory and have someone else worry about it.

 

[Robert Harris]

Re: What's it worth?

Sorry for delay in response.Did not see compression test, but did see the damaged piston and cylinder which also chewed up the head.<br /><br />Is there any other major thing to look for to determine condition or how it happened in the first place.I have heard the older outboards do not like this new unleaded gas with all the additives(makes them run hot).Is there a stabilizer or something to add a little lead back in? Also, once I tear it down, how will I test the crank to see if it is any good? Do I have to send it out or to a dealer?<br />I am new to outboards so I don't yet know all the lingo,, what is a cd box that Vinny mentioned?<br /><br />Thanks for the time.