Best/worst outboards from the early mid-90s

[twierz]

Im going to be buying a fishing boat this summer...something from the mid to early 90's 40-60HP motor.<br /><br />What are the best and worst motors during this time period? Anything stick out that I should avoid? What should I look for?

 

[JB]

Re: Best/worst outboards from the early mid-90s

Just opinions, Tom. You'll get plenty more.<br /><br />Avoid: Any Force, Johnson/Evinrude after '98.<br /><br />Great Engines: Johnson/Evinrude 40/50/60 before the QC disasters of '98-'00, Tohatsu, Yamaha. Suzuki 4 stroke 40/50/60/70.<br /><br />All of the others are good engines.<br /><br />Good luck.

 

[BillP]

Re: Best/worst outboards from the early mid-90s

The 50 twin johnson/evinrudes were bullet proof.<br />Personally, I would avoid any merc that old. <br /><br />Fresh or salt water matters here...80s & 90s vintage 2 stroke Suzukis had major corrosion problems in salt water.

 

[almost retired again]

Re: Best/worst outboards from the early mid-90s

Hi Tom;<br />It's just my opinion , but I think that the best engine in the range that you are looking at is the Johnson/Evinrude 60 HP. This engine in the three cylinder version was basically a 70 HP, and almost bullet proof. However I'm sure that you wull get many more opinions.<br />Good Luck

 

[Jack Shellac]

Re: Best/worst outboards from the early mid-90s

I'd go with an OMC too. Sturdy and reliable.

 

[BillP]

Re: Best/worst outboards from the early mid-90s

Ditto with the 60omc (70 is bullet proof too). Just for reference the 40/50 twin cyl omcs share the same block and approx weight of 180lbs. The 60/70 triple cyls share the same block with approx weight of 250lbs.

 

[OBJ]

Re: Best/worst outboards from the early mid-90s

And another ditto for the OMC's. Very forgiving engine. Will get you home when other engines will not. I have a 84' 50hp I've been running for 8 years and except for once when I got water in the gas, it has never left me stranded although I did manage to get it going by draining the carbs and putting on a new tank of gas while still on the water.