1990 Johnson 88 hp SPL

[thomask]

I am looking at buying a 15ft runabout with a 1990 Johnson 88 hp SPL. I am interested in Skiing and general boating. The motor appears to be in good shape. It does have a few bumps and scrapes on the bottom of the lower unit. Was the 88 SPL a reliable motor? Can it pull larger skiers? Will the bumps and scrapes on the lower unit affect performance or longevity?<br /><br />Thanks

 

[Dhadley]

Re: 1990 Johnson 88 hp SPL

The 88 is a very good motor. All of the v4 cross-flows are basicaly the same. You should be able to pull up a skier as long as the set-up is correct. I have an 88 on a 16' Starcraft and have no problem pulling a skier. The scrapes probably won't hurt anything but make sure the gear oil is not full of water or metal. And the compression is even. Good luck.