1988 100hp

[CaptainPuget]

I’m considering buying a 1988 Mercury 100hp (4 cylinder). It appears to be in good shape, has good compression, runs wells, shifts smooth, T/T works well. But I have no experience with this engine. Does anyone have any pros or cons to share on this or similar engines?

 

[Clams Canino]

Re: 1988 100hp

You know what I'm gonna say...... <br /><br />-W

 

[WillyBWright]

Re: 1988 100hp

If you're into waterskiing, don't buy it. They troll well and the top-out well. At slow waterskiing speeds they're absolutely awful. They run on 2 cylinders at idle and all 4 at full throttle. Between 1800 and 2400 ... well, there is no 1800 to 2400. That's where it can't decide to run on 2, 3, or 4 cylinders. Keeping a steady speed is impossible in that range which usually happens to be the speed for beginner skiers and wakeboarders. Otherwise it's a good motor.

 

[sprinkler]

Re: 1988 100hp

I have a 1988 100HP and I don't have any problems while skiing/tubing.<br /><br />My engine leaks a little oil but other than that it runs great. It is a hard-starting engine, though.

 

[CaptainPuget]

Re: 1988 100hp

Thanks for the feedback. I'm going to pass on this one. The old in-line 6 is proving to be not so easy to replace.

 

[BikerBoater]

Re: 1988 100hp

oops

 

[BikerBoater]

Re: 1988 100hp

I have a 1988 Sea Ray Seville 16' with the matching white Mercury 100 2+2. Same as the regular black Merc. I've only had it one season but, I rarely notice the engine switching over to 4 cylinders or back to 2. I did get water in the fuel this summer and had to rebuild the fuel pump and that was easy. I think this is a great engine. It does hesiate for a sec. when first plunging the throttle down but, then it pulls strong. I wouldn't have a problem buying another one. Although, I feel mine was well taken care of by it's former owner.

 

[khc1970]

Re: 1988 100hp

I've a 1989 100 2+2, make sure it is service properly and all the timing etc are correct otherwise the 'switching over' rev range can be all over the place. Found the engine preform reasonably well, only gripe is it 'drinks' petrol faster than I can put it in, at high rev.