1986 Force 125 Problems

I am considering an 1986 Bayliner Bass boat with a non-working Force 125HP engine. I was told the engine was ran a ground on a sand bar the last time it was used so I assume the engine was overheated and the upper unit fried and the owner twisted off 8 bolts while removing the side plate. I will not be able to perform a compression test prior to purchase........ The price for the boat, a nice big-wheel trailer, and trolling motor is $500 or less. Is it possible or worth while for me to attempt to evaluate the engine for repairs or should I just scrap the engine and re-power? I know auto engines but am a novice with outboards.

Also,would an 85hp engine be adequate to power this boat?

Thanks, Al Pate

Re: 1986 Force 125 Problems

Welcome to iboats AlPate.

Scrap the engine, maybe part it out on ebay.
The lower unit and ignition should fetch you $500.

You didn't tell us how big the boat is, but Bayliner/Force packages were usually not overpowered, sometimes underpowered.
Guessing you are looking at an 18' boat, I would not repower with less than 115hp.

Re: 1986 Force 125 Problems

does it look like this?

By yfz450guy, shot with Canon PowerShot A95 at 2007-08-28

Re: 1986 Force 125 Problems

I have an '87 Bayliner bass boat similar to this with a Force 125 on it. I think it would definitely be underpowered with an 85 HP. I think these are rated for up to 150 HP, if I had the $$$ I would put as much power on it as I could.

yfz450guy - I notice that your windshields are gone too. I've heard that replacements are difficult to find and very expensive - have you ever checked into it? Probably not worth replacing, especially with how easy they seem to break.

Re: 1986 Force 125 Problems

i have looked into it and yes if you go to the dealer they are $735 each!!!
i found a place that will make them and ship them to my door for $210.

Re: 1986 Force 125 Problems

If you have the money to pick up a late model used outboard that is no larger than the hp listed on the boats capcity plate, I would do it. iboats has a pre-owned 2006 115hp Merc 4 cycle for $6,000. You can also find used (and risky) outboards on ebay. I bought a late model rebuild complete outboard from Blackbird (1outboard.com) and was happy. I see they have a '98 100hp Merc for $4200 and 1986 110hp Johnson for $3300. Just to give you an idea of whats out there.

And don't forget to look at Craigs list.

Re: 1986 Force 125 Problems

My 86 bayliner capri cuddy is rated for 125 HP. I was shocked it wasent higher given the weight of the boat.

85 would be a tad low I think.

Why dont you give a good looking to on the motor before you go spend 2 or 3 thou on another motor, the one on the boat may be cheeper in the long run. Might not be that damaged.

Re: 1986 Force 125 Problems

that first pic was before paint and this is after i painted it.
hope you like it.