Posted by jquigley on 02/12/09 - 8:14 AM
#2
Doesn't seem like a lot to me. Outboards, if properly maintained can last a long time. I think the most important thing to find out is the maintenance history of those first 140 hours. The magic number I go by is 1000 hrs. 1000 hours typically is an old tired motor, but that is certainly not the death of an outboard.
Some people have 140 hours on their motor in one season or less. Have a trusted mechanic go over it, to check compression, gaskets, etc. unless you are confident enough to do it yourself. That usually can give some insight into the previous maintenace history if records are unavailable.
I think there is an article or previous thread out there about testing outboards. I know iboats.com has a forum dedicated specifically to Yamaha outboards.
http://forums.iboats.com/forumdisplay...y.php?f=26
Maybe check in there and see what they say.
The following is from discoverboating.com
http://www.discoverboating.ca/owning/...board.aspx
After Every Trip
-After every outing, flush out the engine. This doesn't just apply to salt water adventures, but to fresh water outings as well.
-Buy a set of "rabbit ears": two flexible rubber seals connected with a metal clamp. Slip the apparatus onto the lower unit where the water is picked up and attach a garden hose.
-Start up the engine and let the water pump do the rest. (Practice safe boating and remember to stay clear of the prop and make sure no one tries to shift the motor into gear.)
-While you're flushing the motor, check the water pump to make sure it has good water flow.
-Carefully put your finger through the stream of water. It may be warm, but it shouldn't be hot. If the output is not strong, you may have some debris stuck in the outflow tube. Immediately shut down the engine to prevent overheating and damage.
-Insert a small piece of wire into the flow tube and work it back and forth. Start the engine again and check the output. If that doesn't solve the problem, you may need a new water pump.
-After flushing the engine, disconnect the fuel line and allow the engine to burn all the fuel in the carburetor.
-Once you've finished the flushing and run the engine out of fuel, be sure to turn off the key and, if you have a battery switch, turn it off.
-Take the engine cowling off and check for fuel or water leaks. If you find leaks, consult your safe boating mechanic.
-Wipe everything down and spray with an anti-corrosive like WD 40 or Quick-lube. Be sure to lubricate all the moving parts such as the shift and throttle cables, carburetor valves, etc.
-Replace the cowling and wipe it down. Keep a canvas or plastic cover on the engine between trips.
-Always use fresh fuel. At the end of the season, boat motor maintenance should include draining your tanks and taking the fuel to the proper recycling authority.
Regular Maintenance
-Periodically check the fuel line for cracks and worn spots.
-Make sure the fuel primer bulb is not cracked and is pliable.
-Make sure the fuel-line fittings seat properly and don't leak.
-Check the clamps on the fuel line for rust or corrosion.
-Check the fuel tanks for damage and corrosion.
-Check the tank vent to make sure it aspirates properly.
-Check regularly for water in the fuel.
-John
Edited by jquigley on 02/12/09 - 8:27 AM