Buying a saltwater motor???

[Flippin 416]

Here's the deal....I have a chance at picking up a 2000 Johnson 60HP for $650. It's a remote 20" tilt trim, no prop, or controls (which I already have). I have not seen the motor yet and would have to travel out of state to get it. I am going to use it only in freshwater. The motor has been ran in saltwater. The motor also need a rebuild on the powerhead, according to the guy selling the motor it lost the #3 cylinder this summer.

Are there any severe issues with buying a saltwater engine that I should look for? Also does anyone have a rough idea of how much it would cost to rebuild the powerhead....I would do the work myself.

Thanks for any input I appreciate it!!

[Mr Limpet]

I would look around for a running engine if I were you. You can find a lot of 60HP + running motors for the money that you'll have in that motor. I have rebuilt a XP 150. It is not hard to do mechanically but you better know all the tricks. I blown motor can have some hidden issues (cracked block, bent rod, bearing problems, etc...that will surface after you run it for the first time. Money down the drain.

If the motor blew in saltwater then it was not flushed so you'll have corrosion problems on top of everything else you will encounter.

I would expect that you will have @ $ 1300 in the whole rebuild if done correctly and no corners are cut. That is including your free labor, machine work, carb rebuild and if no electronics are needed. If the crank is rusted or pitted (most likely) it is not worth the effort.
Motors ran in saltwater are good only for parts after they blow IMHO.

Find a running motor with a a prop, oil tank, fuel line and controls for $ 1300 or less.

Good luck with your decision.

[Laguna Freak]

I agree with Mr Limpet as far as shopping for a running engine. Unless of course you are confident that you know what the problem is and you can fix it for little expense.

As far as the saltwater exposure goes, the previous owner and his maintenance practices are the factor with the greatest impact. I's also talk to his servicing dealer.

If there is little or no corrosion under the cowl and the motor appears well cared for, it probably is. It is also easy enough to pull thermostats and other cooling circuit connectors to check for obstructions.

[red devil]

I bought a saltwater motor of a diffent brand awhile back. It was one the biggest mistakes I have ever made. I dont think they are even good for parts. Mine had corrosion all the way through one cylinder wall. And it was suppose to be a running motor. Just two cents good luck

[Flippin 416]

Thanks for the input...I appreciate it.
Based on what I learned here and from talking to some of my local marine experts...I opted to pass on this motor. Too many unknows, too far away...etc etc.
So I will be looking for a 60 - 70 HP Johnson or Evinrude 1996 and newer 20" remote this fall/winter/spring (no hurry lol) if anyone knows of any around Ohio.
Thanks again for the input!