1997 Johnson V4 90, the good, bad??

[curlybill]

Just bought a 1997 Stratos 250 with a Johnson V4 90 on it, one owner boat, compression was 115-120 on all cylinders, is the generally a reliable engine? Any quirks or problems I need to address? Thanks....

[dozerII]

I have a 93 v4 90 just rebuilt never been run yet. I bought it based on the way they are talked about on this forum. I had a 115 v4 on my last boat and it was great. Read the threads on the VRO and OMS systems then make a choice. Just my 2 cents
Glen

[SparkieBoat]

I think the V-4 OMC motors are pretty much legendary for durability. Just do the routine maintenance, be sure to keep your oil tank filled, ( I premix), make sure it does not run hot, keep the carbs clean ( I like Sea Foam additive) and keep it above the water line, and you should be good.

[mikesea]

great engine.question, is that a 25 ft boat,BECAUSE if so,could be underpowered

[curlybill]

great engine.question, is that a 25 ft boat,BECAUSE if so,could be underpowered

whoops thats supposed to say Stratos 258, its 15 1/2 ft long, 890lbs dry...

[Dhadley]

A lot depends on which 1997 90 hp you have. The crossflow is old technology but very reliable with reasonable care and maintenance. The 90 hp looper is newer technology, quick to rev up, great torque. Great motor. Both will serve you well.

[curlybill]

A lot depends on which 1997 90 hp you have. The crossflow is old technology but very reliable with reasonable care and maintenance. The 90 hp looper is newer technology, quick to rev up, great torque. Great motor. Both will serve you well.

how do I tell the diffrence between the two??

[Dhadley]

The crossflow will have bolt on by-pass covers and exhaust plates. The heads will have bolt on water jacket covers. The block is a 90* block.

A 90 hp looper is a 60* block, no bolt on covers for the intake area or exhaust. The flywheel will be uner a plastic cover.

As always, the model numer will let us "see" what you have.

[surrender]

I have an 88 spl v-4 (1996) and its a crossflow. I think the torque is great. Could only get 5200rpm with an old worn out 17" prop. Switched to SS 15" and have great hole shot and 5600+ rpms. motor is strong BUT it does like the fuel. No big deal, most trips will be under 40 miles round trip.

[SparkieBoat]

proper prop is huge....I have found many boats over propped..people think it helps the motor to turn less RPMs...most V-4s need to spin at least 5400 RPMs in my opinion...5800 is even better