Re: Old Merc 125 question
Rocks,<br />A waterpump rebuild kit costs about 25 bucks and will take you all of 30 minutes to install. You'll have to pull off the lower unit, but it's one of the simplest maintenance items on an outboard.<br /><br />If you are looking at the boat, make sure you check the compression on all of the cylinders. They should be around 125-130lbs and should not have more than a 5-10% variance between each. If any cylinder is low, this could mean internal problems you may want to have checked out beforehand. If the cylinders are around 105 - 110 lbs each, then this engine is well worn and will be needing a rebuild soon.<br />Also, check the lube in the lower unit. It should be clear and consistent. If it is milky there may be a water leak and the seals may be bad, another "hidden" expense.<br /><br />If you are serious, replace the waterpump and get a test drive. Engines that run smoothly in the driveway with the muffs, sometimes turn into a sickly animal when in the water, pushing a boat.<br /><br />As for the year of the motor, if you can get the serial number and model number, someone on this board can get you the year. You may want to post that question on the Engine forum instead of the basic boating forum.<br /><br />Good Luck.<br />Nav
