Used Outboards

Bigshrimpin · #1 11-06-2018, 12:12 PM

There are weak points on every motor. Educating yourself on these common issues will help you to know what to look for when shopping. In my experience there are a few absolutes.

1. ALL MOTORS have weak points.
2. Most people don't sell motors that are running perfectly.
3. Buying used engines is ALWAYS a crap shoot.
4. You can test for somethings (compression, spark, codes, hours), but one of the best tests is a 20 - 30 minute ride through the full RPM range which is not always possible.
5. internal corrosion is not always easy to detect.
6. Fuel restrictions causes a LOT of 2 strokes to pop and that's not the fault of a motor as much as their owners would like to think. Common causes for fuel restrictions are USCG saftey nipples, screens in fuel pickup, filters, and crappy hoses. It doesn't take long to kill a 2 stroke from a fuel restriction.

2.6L Hpdi's (150,175,200) were very reliable. I am not aware or any major issues with the early years.

3.0L Opti's (225, 250) compressors go bad after a while. A local tow BoatUS captain up here carry spares optimax compressors and can change them on the water.

2002 - 2004 Fichts were good especially the 250's. After bombardier bought them they worked out a lot of the problems. There were issues with electronics in computer that can be addressed by DFI. Most ETEC's are fairly reliable.

DoozleD · #2 11-06-2018, 09:02 PM

Do not buy a used outboard unless u know where its coming from! If its to good too be true...it IS

gofastsandman · #3 11-09-2018, 09:17 PM

You have much better boat us service than we.

Bigshrimpin · #4 11-10-2018, 07:38 PM

Sorry . . . I meant spare compressors for his own boat, not for customers motors. The guy runs twin 225 opti's on his Boston Whaler.

gofastsandman · #5 11-10-2018, 08:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bigshrimpin

Sorry . . . I meant spare compressors for his own boat, not for customers motors. The guy runs twin 225 opti's on his Boston Whaler.

Couldn't just leave that there haha.

bgreene · #6 11-15-2018, 06:42 AM

Comment on buying used outboards - you can get perfectly good used and save a lot of money if you do your homework like anything else.

1. Check the seller properly for any bad reviews, bad reputation and any BBB complaints.
2. Ask the right questions
3. Get what you need in writing - a reputable seller with nothing to hide will be pleased to provide what you request.

I've bought two separate 200 hp outboards at roughly 1/2 cost new and turned out perfect.

Large boat dealers often have fine used that get swapped out as owners want new or bigger motors.

Nice job you did listing the problematic motors, seems right on target.

rcnight · #7 01-28-2019, 10:45 AM

Gents: Would like your input on the following. I ran across a pair of 2004 Optimax 135's counter rotating, well cared for with low hours. Owner wanted more power and 4 strokes. Would like your input on what to expect for the noise level and fuel burn. These would be going on my 23 WA. Thanks again.