what do you guys think about the old merc thunderbolts?

[psinatra]

The boat my grandpa had while I was growing up had a 1976 merc thunderbolt 500. We always had problems with it, but we had a REALLY crooked local mechanic. And we weren't exactly into proper maintenance. But it eventually blew up.


Anyway, after the boat sat in the elements for about 15 years, I have started to clean it up for restoration.

But I need a motor. And I have a lead on another rebuilt thunderbolt 500. The guy guarantees his work so I don't really worry about the condition.

But I'm not sure if the nostalgic part of me (that wants it) should be talked out of.

were they actually great motors? Or is there something else I should be looking at. I certainly couldn't afford a new 4-stroke (and it would probably be an abomination to put something so new on a classic boat) so I'm not really sure what I should be looking for.

 

[psinatra]

Re: what do you guys think about the old merc thunderbolts?

btw...this is the boat. 1972 crestliner.

 

[green4themoney]

Re: what do you guys think about the old merc thunderbolts?

these motors are awesome if properly maintained

 

[corm]

Re: what do you guys think about the old merc thunderbolts?

Hi,

I have several of them. They are bullet proof. IMO

Nice looking boat.

 

[psinatra]

Re: what do you guys think about the old merc thunderbolts?

Hi,

I have several of them. They are bullet proof. IMO

Nice looking boat.

Thanks! I think it will be a great boat when we're done.


I'll probably try to find a thunderbolt 650 for it

 

[corm]

Re: what do you guys think about the old merc thunderbolts?

A 65 HP would be more fun!

 

[psinatra]

Re: what do you guys think about the old merc thunderbolts?

A 65 HP would be more fun!

When I was a kid we always assumed that it was rated for a 40 but grandpa had a 50 on it.


You would not BELIEVE my excitement when after the scrubbing the info plate, I saw that it was rated for 65!!!!!

 

[psinatra]

Re: what do you guys think about the old merc thunderbolts?

the final question here....is there a way of adding a tilt/trim on to an old motor like that?

If not, is there a similar merc that does have one that you guys would recommend? around 60hp?

 

[corm]

Re: what do you guys think about the old merc thunderbolts?

Hi,

Yes you can put trim on the 50 HP. Also any 3 cyl 50, 60, 65, or 70 (50cu in) HP Merc. Any of the 3 cyl will give you better power and speed. They are 50 cu in engines and the 4 cyl is a 44 cu in engine. The 3 cyl in age 65-70-50 & 60 oldest to newest. The newer the better. A lot of the 70's and most of the 50, and 60's had factory trim installed.