1998 Evinrude Ficht 175hp

[cdrewitt]

Hi all,

I would like some advice on a 1998 Evinrude Ficht motor. I have done my homework on this engine and I know there are many posts about them, but I was hoping to get some opinions on my particular case. I'm aware that the 1998-99 were bad years for this motor, but there are a couple of factors which are making me keen.

• the motor runs well and has good compression on all 6 cylinders.
• the seller assures me that the OMC mandated updates to the powerhead etc have been installed (is there anyway to confirm this??)
• The engine has over 300 hours and I've read that once these engines reach a certain point you're fairly safe to assume that they're going to keep on going.
• Finally, the engine is pretty cheap.

My question is, given the above would you buy this motor?
Your thoughts will be much appreciated!
Thanks

[hidef]

I wouldn't buy a FICHT then again I won't buy an Etec either but that is different story. Rumor has it that BRP is starting to phase out the manufacturing of parts for the old OMCs. Basically any outboard over 10 years old. OMC didn't make a lot of Fichts so unless you have a bone yard full of parts I wouldn't touch it.