What to look for when buying used I/O

P

Pushrods

Cadet
Joined
Sep 15, 2008
Messages
6
Im looking for a used 18-20ft sport boat in the 1992-2005 yr range. Im finding that many of these size boats come with a Merc Alpha 1 gen II outdrives in 4.3 or 5.0 engine sizes. What things might I look at real close at to determine the overall health of the I/O drive or engine than total hours? I know being in salt water is a consideration and will rule out most that have had heavy salt use. If the boat has been primarily or totally in fresh water are there some key items I need to look at or questions to ask in making sure I dont purchase something that will have a short life or be expensive to fix after I buy it.

Thanks for any input,
Pushrods
 
chiefalen

chiefalen

Captain
Joined
May 18, 2008
Messages
3,598
Re: What to look for when buying used I/O

Newest 4.3 mpi volvo, first choice merc second, in a 19' fresh water, that i could afford.
 
M

mtnrat

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Jul 29, 2006
Messages
419
Re: What to look for when buying used I/O

Yep look for a volvo, all else being equal.
 
180shabah

180shabah

Rear Admiral
Joined
Mar 26, 2005
Messages
4,995
Re: What to look for when buying used I/O

As you said, total hours does not tell the whole story.

Look for maintenance records - pay particular attention to the age of the impeller in the seawater pump and the drive bellows.
 
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