Mercruiser 3.0

[jasonneal]

I have never owned a boat with an inboard/outboard. I am looking at an 89 model ski/runabout with the 3.0 Mercruiser 4 cylinder that the seller states is rated at 130 hp. Any input on this motor pro or con? Should it push a 16 footer pretty well? Thanks

 

[traveling man]

Re: Mercruiser 3.0

i had a 3.0 merc in my 19footer and it would run 40 mph. They are a good motor, but i would have it checked out before purchase.

 

[tlihou]

Re: Mercruiser 3.0

I second that. I had a 19 footer with a Merc 3.0 in it and got just a shade better than 40 mph out of it. Very good for skiiing, tubing or just cruising around.

And, now that I've upgraded to a V8, I can see a difference in gas mileage...

While others with more technical knowledge will likely chime in, Merc has been making that motor for years - so that should tell you something.

I also second the notion of getting it looked at. There are plenty of Merc mechanics out there that have seen a 3.0 inside and out and can tell you if it's worth it to spend the money.

Good luck...

 

[Nubby]

Re: Mercruiser 3.0

Had an '89 Larson, 17' with a 3.0. We put a more aggressive prop on it for watersports and lost some top end. It would still do around 32-35 though and got GREAT fuel economy. When I bought the last boat, I decided I wasn't getting anything other than a V6 though. I little worse on fuel but well worth the extra dollars every weekend. That motor should be plenty though and if maintained properly will run for a LONG time.

Nubby