2004 Johnson 50hp buying advice

[p10]

I'm looking at a 50hp Johnson from 2004. It comes complete with hydraulic steering. Hasn't been used for a couple of years, but runs great according to the seller. Don't know much about these engines, and I'm wondering if these are considered reliable engines? Is there anything in particular I should look for?

 

[Scott Danforth]

Motors that sat for a couple of years won't "run great" without work

 

[Crosbyman]

usual stuff to do ....

check GC oil if old and dirty not so bad just repalce it ... if fresh oil maybe hiding a GC leak
check compression and report back
check ignition ( does it have sparks )
change the impeller
do a test run if permitted by the seller
etc...

 

[ct1762@gmail.com]

funny thing about those... the trim MUST be working to command any kind of $. test that . bring own battery. whats he asking for it? i'd say no more than $500. its a late model sure with trim, but who knows what it needs! certainly carb service, water pump, gear oil, plugs, link n synch, im sure cam and spark advance rollers need replacing ($80 right there) and more. you have no idea what shape the rectifier or stator or pack or anything in the ignition is in.

 

[p10]

The power trim button on the engine doesn't work according to the seller. Never has done in the 10 years he has had the engine. But the button on the remote control works, he says.

Asking price is $950. As I'm in Norway, that places it in the lower end of the market. 50hp engines going for that price usually has something wrong with them. A well kept 50hp engine is usually around twice that price.

 

[racerone]

Ignition parts is the least of worry.----Those gearcases are NOT robust in my opinion.----Ask seller about gearcase maintenance history.----Do a compression test.