Expected Engine Life

I know and ascribe to the theory that maintenance and care are primary factors in the life of any mechanical device. That said, I sold my last boat in 2000, and life has kept me out of the game since. Finally reached the point where I can fish some again and have started nosing around long at used boats. I see a lot of outboards, both 2 & 4 stroke, for sale with 300-400 hours on them. With proper care, how many hours should one expect before major maintenance/ rebuild? Is this different for different size engines, say 60 vs 250? I know there are a tremendous number of variables in my questions, but would appreciate any information anyone wants to share. I'm looking around for a nice, well maintained rig rather than a specific brand or size. Thank you.

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If I was worried I would ask the seller to get a print out of the engine it will tell how many rpm`s for how many hours. An engine that has 400 hours and 80% of those hours at max rpm I would be concerned. Todays out boards should hit 1500-2000 hours with out much trouble. If you can get a leak down test of the engine is one of the best ways to tell how the internals are.

Like a car I would ask the seller if you can get the motor checked out by a certified marine mechanic. Buyer beware.

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Originally Posted by BuckeyeCrappie

Like a car I would ask the seller if you can get the motor checked out by a certified marine mechanic. Buyer beware.

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I will absolutely do that. The level of caution I normally use with such purchases will somewhat limit my search radius. I got burned on a motorcycle purchase some years ago. Bike was 1,000 miles away but was vouched for by a highly respected expert on that particular bike's online forum. I bought it based on that and pictures. Couldn't believe it when it got here. Far from being as described. Took me several months to get it right. I even called the guy who vouched for it. He finally admitted he hadn't seen it in two or three years. It turned out fine. Just cost me time and money I wasn't expecting. All that has served to make me much more cautious.

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It would be helpful to know what style boat and motor that you're in the market for. Engine systems that provide onboard data collection are relatively new with most being larger hp models. If you're looking for a midsize crappie boat with a 2 stroke of about 40 hp, checking it out will be much different than if you are looking at a late model 150 hp 4 stroke.

The state of TN is getting many, many hours with their Tohatsu 4 stroke engines. The very reason, I went with the 60hp.

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Originally Posted by sliderman

It would be helpful to know what style boat and motor that you're in the market for. Engine systems that provide onboard data collection are relatively new with most being larger hp models. If you're looking for a midsize crappie boat with a 2 stroke of about 40 hp, checking it out will be much different than if you are looking at a late model 150 hp 4 stroke.

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Ideally, I think I want something about 17' with 60 or so hp, preferably in a 4 stroke. I will be fishing alone 95+% of the time, so I don't NEED a big boat. That said, I wouldn't rule one out if the right one came along. There is something to be said for the additional comfort. Looking around, I have to say I've gotten sticker shock from prices on new ones. I think a good solid used rig will serve me best. Thanks for any advice you guys might have.

Around here, now is a great time to "Put out your feelers" that you are interested in buying a good, used boat. With the boat show right around the corner, lots of people will be looking to buy new boats and some good deals will be out there on used boats if you can connect with the owners. Ask around, talk to people; thank goodness that there are some folks that take good care of their stuff and maybe you will find a great boat at a great price.

I'll keep a check here and will contact what few people I know here. May even touch base with a couple of the local dealers. I'm wary of Facebook marketplace and Craigslist though.

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You are right to be leary but those two media outlets are the "go-to" sources to advertise. Just be sure to look everything over twice before the purchase. Aren't you in N.E. AR?

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Originally Posted by sliderman

You are right to be leary but those two media outlets are the "go-to" sources to advertise. Just be sure to look everything over twice before the purchase. Aren't you in N.E. AR?

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I was. Relocated to central Mississippi. I think I have my information correct on here now. Sorry we never got to meet when I lived up that way.

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