Requesting advice on buying 85or 90 hp

[darnold]

I am afraid that my Suzuki 85 is a dead puppy as I can't get the gear housing off to replace the water pump. My dilemma is what to replace it with. Am considering a used ten year old Evinrude 90 hp, but also am leery of another used engine. I want something reliable but don't know that it makes sense for me to buy a new engine considering the expense and that I won't be able to use it that much out on the water. I am new to outboards over 8hp. Are there any old workhorses (like an old Toyota Camry) that can be counted on? Any suggestions? Please!<br /><br />------------------<br /><br />david

 

[JB]

Re: Requesting advice on buying 85or 90 hp

Some prejudice here, DArnold, but OMC V4s fit the term "workhorse". An early 90s 'Rude 90 is a very good bet, so long as it hasn't been too badly abused. <br /><br />Compression should be around 125# with no more than 5 or 10# difference. Plugs should be tan, with little deposit buildup. Lower end oil should not be milky or greenish.<br /><br />If at all possible, test it under load before you commit.<br /><br />Good luck.<br /><br />Red sky at night. . . .<br />JB

 

[darnold]

Re: Requesting advice on buying 85or 90 hp

Thanks, JB, for the good advice. The 'Rude I was checking out had compression in the 105-110 range so I guess i will keep on looking. I will have to remind myself of your sage advice of checking out each engine under load before. I guess only with an outboard would I have ever bought without a test drive. <br /><br />------------------<br /><br />david