[winded2002]

I have a late 70's Mercury 85HP with low compression on the top cylinder. There is also very little water coming out of the pee hole. I was told that the water pump probably failed and the 1st cylinder over heated. Has anyone heard of this? Is this serviceable?The other cylinders run good and have good compression.

[rickdb1boat]

That is probably exactly what happened. And yes, you can have the cylinder bored out(If clearance allows) and install a new piston and rings. And of course, replace the water pump!