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I want to have my motor serviced. It's a 1984 Johnson 185 hp.
It came on the 1984 Outrage 20 that I just bought. I took the boat for a sea trial and it ran great. Idles fine, has lots of power and sounds good.
I know it hasn't been serviced in about 5 years.
Even though it runs good, I figured I should have it serviced.
Are there any questions that I should ask the mechanic? Anything I should make sure he does?
Thermostats, high-speed poppet valves...anything that is exposed to the corrosive salt-water cooling.
Have him check the condition of electrical wires (spark plug wires, etc) and any plastic hoses. These degrade with heat and time.
Of course, do a lower unit oil change and inspect the prop hub seals.....and a leak down/pressure test.
Finally, I'd have him replace the water pump, whether it needs it or not. That way, you can ensure you know EXACTLY when it was last done.
Things for you to do yourself:
Remove the prop from the propshaft, lube the propshaft and replace the prop.
Clean the powerhead using a degreasing cleaner and a rag...then coat plastic/rubber components with silicone spray and the engine block with T-9 Boeshield or similar product (corrosion blocker).
Buy some touch-up paint and just go over the exterior and make sure any knicks are coated...then wax the exterior of the motor.
Grease the throttle/shift cables (both ends - in the motor and at the control box) using Triple Guard Grease or equivalent, grease the steering rod and trim/tilt tube (there should be zerk fittings for this) and inspect the fuel hoses for deterioration and replace (this is cheap insurance).
This is the fun part of buying a new used boat. Good luck.
Thank you for the advice Buckda. The mechanic said it is a good idea to replace the thermostat and water pump every few years so I will tell him to replace both.
I will print out your suggestions and take them with me when I drop off the boat so I don't forget anything.
If anyone can think of anything else, I will very much appreciate your input.
