1980 JOhnson 15 HP Outboard Motor

[Kbfu99]

I want to prep a motor my brother gave me to sell before I have someone look at it. My brother told me that it runs well. I have not had a chance to start it - it has been mounted in my basement for a few months - and I am wondering what is the safest/best way to test it out. Are there specific things I should check before giving it a pull, etc?

Also, how should I decide how much to ask for such a motor? I know it is a 1980, that it runs well and that is about it. Do these motors have a way of telling how many hours are on them? If you could help me out I would appreciate it. I have pics too if that helps. If you can help and want pics either respond here or email me at Email not allowed in open forum. use the PM system. TD . Thanks a lot guys.
-Ken

 

[mikesea]

Re: 1980 JOhnson 15 HP Outboard Motor

those little engines held some value,as for hrs,simply,unless a hour meter was installed,answer is no,to test run ,you will need a set of muffs that allow engine to get water,or put in a barell,the muffs are easier ,but eng will be noiseyer,buyer would be smart to do a compression check,which you shuld allow if he has the tool and know how,be sure he dont strip plug threads putting guage in if he elects to,if the eng was run primerily in fresh water,thats a plus,salt can tear engines up if not flushed with fresh water on muffs,as for value,if its clean ,freshwater used ,in south Fl.i could probably get at least $600 because clean used 9.9 or 15 hp are used for backup and sailboats,if its just a used eng that shows its age but runs great,300to 400 a rough junker for parts that are usable,50 t0 100.The alternative for a buyer is spending at least another $1000 at least.Give a better idea of its use and looks,others will likely chime in

 

[Kbfu99]

Re: 1980 JOhnson 15 HP Outboard Motor

Thank you - that was very helpful. I can't really say much else about the motor except that it looks very clean. I believe it falls within the 300-400 range because it was most likely used for a back-up in saltwater for a sailboat. Or simply for a sailboat until a larger motor was purchased. I have a neighbor who may knows about these motors and I will follow up with him from there. I appreciate your help!