I've been working on a bunch of them lately at the home shop. I think about 9 of them last week, all chinese 40hp Merc's (4 stroke). Exhaust cover gaskets, one blown powerhead, fuel filter plugged, one was just a service & valve adjustment, one lower unit repair. After working on a few of them, I am not sure I'd want one. In fact I know I wouldn't want one. Never cared much for most mercury outboards and the last week was a reminder of why. Today's project....remove, rebuild, reinstall 4 carbs from a 90hp Mercury 4 stroke. Remove/reinstall isn't too bad but the cleaning & remanufacturing is going to be a chore. 2 prime starters on 4 carbs, hoses, linkages, then after reinstallation the synchronization process. HOPEFULLY it solves this man's issue. As much dirt as I am seeing in the lower pan, I bet it may have one or more cylinders damaged. Those old dirt dobbers will do a number on outboards; they don't have air filters on the majority of them so whatever gets under the cowling easily ends up going through the motor. Had a 25hp Yamaha (twin carb) in yesterday with a junk powerhead; 15 psi compression on both cylinders, was a TON of dirt laying in the pan. Owner didn't think they were any problem. Well needless to say after we priced a powerhead rebuild vs a powerhead assembly (then labor), he ended up buying a new 4 stroke and I don't blame him, but he DID learn a valuable lesson.
At the home shop, I'm seeing about 85% Mercury, a few JohnnyRude's, and a couple Yamaha's. It may mean that there are more mercury's out there, or could it mean that they're failing more often? Dunno. Just what I see as a repairman.
Reminds me I need to check the price of a new Yamaha F15 for my dad's little boat.
