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How to Buy Used Outboard Motors

Investing in a new outboard motor can sometimes lead to empty pockets and therefore a used outboard motor is a better option if money is a constraint (which almost always is!)

Here we have compiled a list of steps which will prove helpful when you go out to buy a used outboard motor.

Step 1:

Check the local newspaper where you might find some regular boaters selling their boats. These people have the habit of replacing their boats in regular intervals and buying new ones for themselves. You can even buy a used outboard motor from online portals, in print magazines or who knows if you find one in your locality itself. Talk to a couple of people around you and they will surely know someone who is selling his used outboard motor.  Google is always ready to help also.

Step 2:

If you prefer smooth rides than better chose a four stroke motor. Four stroke motors almost always meet the EPA requirements but it might be costly at times, so be prepared for such deals.

Step 3:

If the word smooth isn’t made for you than you will feel better with the less expensive two stroke motor. These outboard motors deliver quick acceleration and are well suited to those who love rough rides over waters.

Step 4:

In U.S.A, the Coast Guard has listed some rules and regulations for the number of passengers on a commercial motor as well as the size of the outboard motor. Do not overlook these measures. These are for your safety. Look for these guidelines when buying a used outboard motor and if the used outboard motor fails to meet these guidelines than better chose some other seller.

Step 5:

Make a list of the accessories and features that you want in your used outboard motor. You might prefer pull rope start over electric start and similar other features. Think carefully before opting for the final used outboard motor.

Step 6:

What size of shaft are you looking for? Do check that in the outboard motor boat that you will buy. Short, long and extra long shafts have sizes 15”, 20”, 25” respectively.

Step 7:

Talk to various local outboard motor boat owners about the brands available and their advantages. If you are already happy with some brand than go with it else give a try to some other brand this time. Read online reviews of various brands and check for consumers reports for respective brands. You will slowly develop a nice picture of each brand and that will help you to invest in the best brand. You can chose from Sears Gamefisher, Evinrude outboard motors, Johnson outboards, Mercury outboard motors or other famous outboard motor brands.

Step 8:

Do consult the seller on how to install the motor and check if every part is available. Try to install the outboard motor yourself while he is around. It will help you get accustomed with the motor parts and the way it needs to be installed.

Part 1:

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Part 2:

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The Mercury outboard in the videos was for sale during the summer and may be sold at this point.

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“I just got a johnson sea horse 5.5 m# CD17. and the s# 2051532 . could any one tell me the year, and the gas & oil mix to this? thank you very much”

If anyone can help out, please add a comment below. Thanks.

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“How does one determine how many hours an outboard motor has ran…does it have a gauge similar to the odometer on a car, or do you just have to take the owner’s word?”

If you’d like to answer this and help out, please leave a comment below. If you don’t see the comment form, just click on the headline of this post to take you to the right page.  Thanks.

For all your Mercury, Johnson, Evinrude, Honda parts and more please visit:

Outboard Motor Parts Search Page

Just enter the manufacturer and part type in the search box where it says “outboard parts” and hit search.