Which Manual

Scuda11

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Jun 16, 2004
Messages
434
Hi guys. 1983 200hp Johnson.<br /><br />I bought the SELOC manual here on iboats a few weeks ago. It has been somewhat helpful to a novice like me, but it can be pretty confusing allot too. (ie. diagrams no where near the topic, etc)<br /><br />My question is I went to outboardwizard.com to get a "real" manual and he said that I would have to get an 1986 manual and it was $40.<br /><br />Is this worth it? <br /><br />Thanks
 

JB

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Mar 25, 2001
Messages
45,907
Re: Which Manual

In my opinion, IAL, no.<br /><br />I do agree that an OEM Manual is superior for the experienced wrench who understandsd the jargon and may even have some of the special tools and equipment called for, but for a different year and $40. I don't think it is that much better.<br /><br />If SELOC or CLYMER confuse you an OEM Manual wont help much.
 

rickdb1boat

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Jan 23, 2002
Messages
11,195
Re: Which Manual

I have to say that even though IAL is not a pro, as neither am I, the Factory Manual does show details in a much better light. When I want to do some work on my motor, I don't even refer to the other 2 that I have.( Yes, I have them all) I go straight to the Factory Manual because the detail is just much better organized and the pics are much more defined for what I need. I know I'm_a_learning is starting to really get into his motor by his recent posts and would say that a Factory Manual would be an asset at this point. It will be nessesary in the future anyway. Besides, sooner or later you will buy one. You can bet on that!! I would get the correct one for your motor though. No use getting one that is not specific for your motor. Try the link below. I've had no problems with the Manuals I've bought there. If you can swing it, the Parts Manual is very handy, also. Has exploded views of everything, which helps out:<br /><br /><br /> www.marineengine.com
 

alcan

Commander
Joined
Dec 14, 2001
Messages
2,505
Re: Which Manual

Just my two cents worth here. I also agree that OEM factory manuals are nice. I have most of them, I also have a aray of after market manuals as well. The best manual of all of them is the one you can read several times over and under stand. I read a lot of complaining on this board about this dumb manual or that. Or I sure wish I had a factory manual. Here is a little secret. Factory manuals can be incorrect also, probably more often than the after markets. That is why the factory sends out service bullitens to the dealers and repair centers to correct or change info, or add new info. The other day I was trying to help a member with a 60's model outboard. So I pulled that exact OEM manual and began to read it to him via telephone. Man I had him and myself so confused. I had not checked the S.B.'s for that model. Finely I cracked open my trusty Clymer manual and there is was all layed out clear as a bell. Use all the info you can reasonably gleen. I,m with J.B I wouldn't pay that much for a copy that wasn't for the motor I had. Unless I had no other.
 
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