Purchasing a Yamaha (115) on pontoon...looking for service

[drifter106]

First pontoon and FIRST 4 stroke. Wondering where you guys in Kansas go to for service on your Yamaha's? Will ask the same thing on the Missouri and Oklahoma boards. Would rather hear from you people as to who would be reputable...will have to travel some either way I go so that really isn't to much of a factor. Live in SE KS.

Been in 1 boat (35 yrs of fishing) that had a 4 stroke, worked ok...quiet for sure...really looking forward to seeing how it performs especially with the pontoon.

Do any of you guys do your own maintenance? Looks like I might need to get some software and cord to connect the engine interface with a laptop...any thoughts or directions on that?

thanks

[zeepo]

I have a 1986 Yamaha 90 hp and I go to Arnies in Lawrence. He does a good job but have not needed much service on it, just a water pump every now and then. Would never buy any other motor but a Yamaha.

Zeepo

[HairyVetch]

John, these motors are fairly easy to comlpete your anual maintanence on. I hit all the grease zerks, change the oil and oil filter and lower unit lube, spark plugs and fuel filter. Most of the parts you need can be found on the internet. I also replace the water pump impellor anually however this may be overkill. Removing the lower unit I would consider an easy task, especially if you have a helper. I would suggest you get one the the Seloc service manuals to assit with the maintenance.

[Silent]

HairyVetch is right on the money. I take mine to Mike at Cabelas in KC for any work. He's great and really knows his yamahas. The work is really simple and I would recommend doing it yourself. Oil and lower unit lube in a shop cost me $140, won't do that again. The water pump impeller is a very small piece that yamaha recommends you change every couple seasons, especially if your not running it on a regular basis. Bet money you fall in love with that motor

[rifleman]

Joes outboard engine repair at Hillsdale lake is great. It's a guy that does it out of his garage but has 35 years experience, just bought my first boat this year and have had all the maintenance done on it and he has never had it more than 24 hours if you call and schedule with him. If your interested pm me and I'll give you his number.

[drifter106]

Thanks for the information people...sounds like a person can find quality service relatively close and the yearly maintenance can be done by "do it yourself". . Jeff, will give you a call later this summer...maybe we can hook up for some fishing.

[Fish Taxi]

PM sent. Good luck with the new boat.