Are johnson 1971 18hp a good motor?

[54 Rude fastwin]

Hey
Just want to know if the 1971 18hp are any good I know someone that has one that says that he hit a log or whatever and now it doesn't run right. besides the prop being bent and or the foot being torn-up are worth it if the motor runs? Are they the same as the 20 or 25 as far as bore size?

[jbjennings]

'71 18hp OMC's are good motors. I would think that OMC never made a crappy 18hp as far as I know. However, a '71 18hp that has struck a log and doesn't run right could be a money pit. Then again, it may just have a bad flywheel key or some other such easy fixes--hard to say. But you'll never know until you fix it. I don't think there's any way to advise someone on what a damaged '71 motor is worth, so I will just say NOT MUCH!
JBJ

[54 Rude fastwin]

Thanks, I never would have thought a flywheel key that would knock the timing off but I myself has never had that happen to me. I am going to look at it this weekend and see whats up with it. He has a parts motor for it and wants to trade my 88 johnson 2.5 for it but the 2.5 is just like new almost so I will be sure before I trade. Thanks for your time, John

[tashasdaddy]

they are easy to work on. but if lower is damaged, could be a real problem. also clutch dog could be bad.