I’m looking at buying a smaller boat to do some pleasure fishing. I found a boat I like and found two same model and same color. Two different dealers. The difference is one has a 1995 mercury 115 the other a 1995 115 Johnson. Any input about which is better. Want a workhorse of a motor very dependable.
Thank you
Grumpy
Ranger R70 Mercury 115
I would have the dealer show you compression test for both and have them start both .
Are you pulling it wth a F.O.R.D. or a Chevy? Do you use Diawa or Shimano reels? Are you normally a boater or a co angler? Lot's of questions need answers before comments can be accurate here.
All things being equal, I would lean toward the Johnson.
Just can't leave well enough alone!!
98 Stratos 273 w/ 150 Faststrike
They both are good ,condition would be deciding factor.
I have more confidence in OMC (as long as it's not a FICHT) but condition of each motor would be the deciding factor for me.
2023 Xpress H18 with 115 SHO and Powertech NRS4 21p
8" Bob's Action Jack
Garmin Echomap 12, 10, 9, and LVS34 networked with Netgear Switch
Ultrex
Trick Steps and Ramp N Clamp
Pulled by a 2016 single cab HEMI Ram
Treat others like you want to be treated when on the water EVEN WHEN IN A TOURNAMENT! No fish is worth having a confrontation because you cut someone off or came in on top of someone.
I’d take the pre Soros Johnson as the old OMC motors are great. I would not touch one that was much newer though.
2000 or 2001 is when the carbed motors got iffy. I had a 2001 150 that came from the factory with a v-4 exhaust tuner.Originally Posted by Transom
Honora Primum Vel Nullum Omnin Honorem
Thanks for the opinions. This is a big help.
Those older V-4 Johnson engines were pretty good engines, some of them could be a bit of a pain to get started first thing in the morning but usually ran great after that.
Stroker DC21 Mercury 250 XB
I would get the Merc out of those 2 choices.
Ranger 520vx Yamaha 225 ox66.
I had a V4 johnson 140...That motor was bulletproof...My buddy is still running it.
Just be sure to use good gas and treat for ethanol issues..Also a littLe sea foam every tank..
"Historically the most terrible things-war, genocide and slavery-have resulted not from disobedience but from obedience"
Zinn
The Johnson is a much nicer running engine when it runs. The plastic carbs and Christmas tree ignition system are the issues. The Merc idles like shit in 2 cylinders & @ 1800 rpm or so it picks up the bottom 2. Reliability wise I'd go with a Merc
I had a Johnson and it wouldn’t die. I’d go Johnson for sure.
2024 Phoenix 818, Mercury 175 (3B414035) Trick Steps, 3 Garmin 106 SV,s, LVS 34. BoatEFX dual bow mount. Ionic 12V 125AH, 2 12V 100 ah LiTime’s for the TM. Minn Kota 345 PCL charger,
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