Late 70's Merc 140 - Need Info

M

Mscanon99

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Sep 10, 2007
Messages
122
Hi All, I came accross a gem of a boat, super condition with the Mercury 140. Looking at some posts on this motor, I guess it was called the 1400 prior to being a 140 and after the HP ratings moved to the prop, they changed it to the 115.

What are your thoughts on this motor, assuming it has been maintained and serviced? Are there any weak links on it to check out? Is the power much like the 115 at the prop, or was this motor a more powerfull option?

Any feedback from those who know would be very much appreciated.

Best,

Mike
 
C

Chris1956

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Mar 25, 2004
Messages
27,140
Re: Late 70's Merc 140 - Need Info

Mike, That motor is the same as the 1977 Merc 1500 IL six. In 1978, Merc rolled out the first 150HP V6, so they changed the 1500's name to 1400 so it would not compete with the 150HPV6.

It is a good lightweight motor, especially for high performance small boats. It has only 99Cu In, so torque is a bit light at low end, but great at midrange and above. Keep the waterpump maintained, the carbs clean and the fuel fresh, and you will not have any issues, provided the motor is in good shape.

If that motor was used in salt water, you might pass on it. After all these years the block tends to deterioate, the bolts rust in and other bad stuff happens.
 
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