Motor Dilema

[kev73]

I have a 1973 18' Sportscraft with a 1970 115 HP Johnson OB. My mechanic (who I trust) told me the compression was low on two cylinders and recommended replacing the motor. He has a 1994 120 HP Force which he'll sell me installed for $1800. Is this a reliable motor, a good price and will it provide similar power as the Johnson?<br /><br />Thanks, Kevin

 

[JB]

Re: Motor Dilema

Hey Kev. Would a '94 Force 120 have similar power to your '70 Johnny 115? More. Remember that your Johnny was rated at the crank and the Force is rated at the prop. Figure 12 to 15 hp lost in the drive train.<br /><br />Is $1800, installed, a good price? Look up the Force on nadaguides.com, add, say, $500 for rigging. The you decide if it's a good price.<br /><br />Reliable? Force has gotten some poor press, most of it undeserved, but any given engine could last three generations or disintegrate tomorrow. You pays your money, take good care of it, and takes your chances.<br /><br />Important factor to consider: The reputation of your dealer's service dept. and their ability to provide parts.<br /><br />Good luck.<br />JB

 

[kev73]

Re: Motor Dilema

Thanks J.B. Yeah, from what I'd read, Force engines (at least pre-1996) seemed to have problems mainly due to the Chrysler design. I guess Mercury has made improvements to the newer ones. Since it's an old boat that I'm just trying to upgrade without spending a lot, adding this engine seems like a good choice. As far as the mechanic, he's in business for himself and has a history of doing good work for my Dad, so I could always go back to him if I had problems.

 

[12Footer]

Re: Motor Dilema

$1800 is a good deal on a Force 120Hp, provided it's not "And your Jonnyrude in trade". The Johnny is worth throwing a rebuild kit into, if it is the first rebuild on it. Provided this engine runs now,inspite of it's low compression,you could sell it for $500 to someone who wants to invest the time and green into it,and have a good motor when done, or someone who chunked a rock,and neds it's lower unit.<br /><br /><br />------------------<br />Time to change my tagline

 

[CatfishJim]

Re: Motor Dilema

Force HuH dont sound to good to me actually sound real shady man DONT BUY A FORCE THEY ARE THE WORST ENGINES MONEY SHOULDN'T BUY you better off with a OMC again. Or a ********** <br /><br />------------------<br />Everyday a catfish is just around the way.<br />Maybe today a big one<br />will take my worm away