Mariner 8hp inspection

[62_Kiwi]

Later on today I'm going to check out a 1988 Mariner 8hp with a view to buying it as a kicker for my 19' f/g caddy boat.<br /><br />Can anyone give me some advice as to what to check for on this particular model, apart from compression, plug condition and running it in a drum of water ?<br /><br />I don't have the chance to run it out on the water and it's a private sale. Does that make it a purchase too risky ?<br /><br />Any advice greatly appreciated.

 

[62_Kiwi]

Re: Mariner 8hp inspection

I went and saw the motor but it had bad corrosion on the outside and the pee hole wasn't squirting water (only a small drip). I placed my hand on the top of the engine after it had been running for about 3 minutes and nearly burnt my hand.<br /><br />Obviously it hadn't been serviced recently or well looked after, so I left it.<br /><br />Also noted that the 1988 model didn't have the gear shift on the tiller like the newer models.<br /><br />This afternoon I'm checking out a Tohatsu 8hp. They are lighter than the Merc (60lb compared to 74lb) and said to be quite reliable...