first time boat owner...needs HELP?.

[ray_depaula]

Ok...here is the low down on this boat/engine. <br /><br />I was given a 20 or 25 hp. merc. tracker. it has a 20hp sticker on it. but the guy who gave it to me said it's a 25hp. because he could not use anything over 20hp. it is a fairly new engine 1996-98??? where he fished...anyways <br /><br />I put the motor in a bucket of water. 2" over the cavatation plate. started it, takes 15-20seconds for the water to come out the hole. stream is good and hard. put it in gear both ways. back to "N" and the water stream is broken. like sucking through a straw with a crack in it...<br /><br />rev the engine up to about 1100-1500 "N" water squirting out out is VERY HOT....themo is supposed to open at 140deg. i think.<br /><br />also after i shut it down, and tilt it out of the water i get water that is draing out of the hole on the skeg...(NORMAL.) what is NOT NORMAL is that my gear oil is going out with the water... <br />any help from anone would be very helpful....Thanks Ray.

 

[grandx]

Re: first time boat owner...needs HELP?.

Ray, you sure it's gear oil and not unburned fuel in the exhaust through the prop? If losing gear oil, I would expect to find water in the gear case, drain it and see if there is water. If sure it is gear oil, then it's time for new seals if gears are still ok.

 

[Capn Mike]

Re: first time boat owner...needs HELP?.

Not sure why the previous owner says it's a 25 because "he couldn't use anything over 20." Jeez, he could put a 150 hp on a 12' skiff: it'd just be stupid to do so.<br />The stream should start immediatly. Start with replacing the water pump, it's an easy and fun job. Before installing the new pump, check the condition of the block and cooling tubes. There may be blockage from corrosion or salt water. While you're there, empty the gear oil, and check the gaskets/O-rings for the drain plugs. One or two might be missing. If not, check the lower unit for cracks or other damage. Replace sacrifical anods everywhere. Not sure if this motor has a thermostat; many outboards don't, but if so, you could replace it as well. Then try it again!

 

[Peter O]

Re: first time boat owner...needs HELP?.

If you post the serial number and someone will confirm the year and HP for you.

 

[ray_depaula]

Re: first time boat owner...needs HELP?.

for everyone out there that took a few minutes to take the time to respond to the help question:<br /><br />THANK YOU ALL....there are still a few good ones out there.

 

[skier]

Re: first time boat owner...needs HELP?.

As far as the HP saying 20 but being a 25 it is easy to explain. I have done it with my 140. I used 115 cowlings in the same way this guy might have used 20hp cowlings on his 25 so that he could fish in this lake.<br /><br />I hope this sheds some light on your motor.<br /><br />Craig