What's the best older outboard??

[Blujay96]

I have a 1989 24ft pontoon. It has a 1999 johnson 35hp. I have been told this motor is very unreliable. And since I have owned it I have been towed twice. I would like to find something around 50hp. Just want to know best years of motors to look at, and brand. Thanks

 

[matt167]

Re: What's the best older outboard??

How about a 3cyl Johnson/Evinrude 70hp. You will like the extra hp and it's an excellent motor.

 

[Blujay96]

Re: What's the best older outboard??

What years. Mine right now is a 3 cylinder.

 

[matt167]

Re: What's the best older outboard??

they were made for a number of years. Ignition systems changed a couple times, but parts are available.. Not sure when they quit making them but it was into the 1990's.. Any of them will be good really

 

[Blujay96]

Re: What's the best older outboard??

Thanks I will do some searching

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: What's the best older outboard??

yes the 70's from 1987 on are great motors.

I may be wrong but I think the 55 from the early 70's was a 3 cylinder

 

[Blujay96]

Re: What's the best older outboard??

What about a 1978. To old??

 

[matt167]

Re: What's the best older outboard??

Decent engine. In 1986 the 70hp increased in displacement to 56 CID from 49 CID and the rev limit changed to 6000 RPM from 5000 RPM, so the later models are better. The T&T on the older motor ( pre '79? ) may be older/ NLA but the engine itself will be the same up to '85.. I'd take any 3 Cylinder Johnson/ Evinrude.. Production years was something like 1968-2001, so for that span, it did something right

 

[Blujay96]

Re: What's the best older outboard??

Any other motors to watch for. All the ones I have found so far are mid to late 70's

 

[Blujay96]

Re: What's the best older outboard??

Ok I bought a 1979 johnson 70hp