Late 90's Evinrude Johnson's?

[brushfly]

I'm in the process of rewiring and repowering my 17' CC. For 21 years, it ran great with an '87 Evinrude that I had to remove due to sinking. That engine was a God send only konking out twice in all those years. Once my fault in the rips in Mn'tk.

Question is, I know Evinrude/ Johnson went downhill when Bombardier first took them over. How do they perform and how is the reliability of models from 1995-2000. In specific those between 70-90 HP?

Any users out there. Feedback appreciated.

Brushfly

[Bob Parsons]

Actually I think Evenrude was going downhill when Bombadier took over and started producing quality engines. If you want to go that route you will get a quality product.

[brushfly]

After doing additional searches, looks like your right Bob. But when did they start going down hill, year wise? Thanks.

[Chuckster]

I had a 1995 Johnson 90hp V4 on my last boat, and it was pretty good. I took very good care of it but it began showing some nagging problems over the last couple of years. Mainly, it would initially start and run perfectly, but after shutting it down to drift, it would be difficult to restart.

Eventually it was discovered that it was taking water into the #1 and #4 cylinders and blowing it out the exhaust. I put a LOT of hours on it and it was 13 years old at the time, but it was declared legally dead this past September. Probably an isolated incident, but thought you might like to know. I was happy with the performance when it was running good.

I also have a brand new aluminum prop for that gearcase (Johnny/Rude mid-90s V4) if anyone is interested in it. I've moved up to a 200hp and this prop is of no use to me anymore. 14 x 17 with a 13-spline... otherwise it's going up on eBay after New Years.

Good luck in your search!

[brushfly]

Appreciate the input, there should be more users replying I hope. Thanks again.

[DaleH]

Gearcases on V6 motors were a huge issue on model year 2000 motors. As that's when Geo Soros stopped the receiving inspection and test sampling of ALL out-sourced parts.

Earlier late 90s vintage should be OK and V4s were historically about the best motors ever made for reliability and longevity.

[Roop]

98 Oceanrunner 150, runs great, any repairs I've been able to easily do myself.

The best part is when it fires up on the first try each spring.

[brushfly]

Any users with either the 70 or 90 from this year? Pros and cons appreciated.
So far my research has turned up reliable, built well a bit noisy and not too fuel efficient. Feedback please.

[brushfly]

Dale sent PM and e-mail. THanks