Re: Question on Year of this Motor?
It could be a terrific deal or it could be a complete waste of money. It all depends on what you find when you take possession of it and try it out.<br /><br />I have a hard time dropping $700 on anything that's a pig in a poke. If you can get the current owner to let you do some basic tests on it, you can better your odds.<br /><br />Since you're going to replace the impeller, regardless (you are going to do that, right?), you can turn it over and check the spark and compression at least. If there's good spark and good, even compression on all cylinders, you've made a start.<br /><br />Next, check the gearcase oil. Not milky? Good deal...you'll save some money by not resealing.<br /><br />Anything missing? How about controls? If you don't have them, that's going to set you back some bucks, so it would be better if they came with the motor.<br /><br />How does it look under the hood? Any sign of heat damage to the paint on the powerhead? Blistering? Discoloration. If not, that's good. If you see such signs, walk away.<br /><br />How's the prop? They're kind of expensive, too.<br /><br />It's $700, after all. If the motor doesn't run, you may be out even more than that to get it going. <br /><br />Think long and act slowly.