1984 50 hp Mariner

[-Marc V-]

Howdy Folks,

I'm looking at buying a boat that carries a 1984 50 hp Mariner. Anybody have any experience with this motor? Is she a good one, or should I pass this up?

Talked to a couple outboard marine service shops, and got mixed reviews. I'm not quite sure whether it's a 3cyl, or a 4cyl. One shop said Mariner only made 4cyl engines in that year, but he didn't sound too confident, and another shop said the 3cyl Mariners I should stay away from, and that he wouldn't even service them there.

Any help is appreciated.

[boatfixer]

I'm sure it is a 4cyl by merc. The "odd" mariners in that hp range back then were 40's and 55's and they were 2cylinder engines. If it is a 4cyl and has a wrap around metal engine cowl, then it is made by mercury. IMO it is a good engine, provided it is in sound condition. check compression( bottom cylinder will be hard to do if you don't have the short merc-o-tronic tester ) check the spark on all 4 cyl's, plan on a new water pump impeller. Also, check the gear case for leakage(water and oil).

Parts availability is still good for these engines. And I would find a shop in your area that "sounds" confident and has no problem servicing mercs. But again, have the motor checked out, because a motor with even the best reputation, could have been mistreated or not well maintained and still be a pile of dump.

[BoxMN]

I am pretty sure it is the merc "classic 50", if like he said is the 4 cylinder. If it is that motor, it is a GREAT motor! We have our 82 merc 50 and use it all fall duck hunting and it starts as good or better than some new motors. First turn of the key every time.

It idles down great, great for walleye trolling or backtrolling, and it is very smooth. It's only problem is that is is a very thirsty motor for its size. You will go through 6 gallons of gas in no time, but by no means is that really a slam against it, just that it is not very fuel efficient. We skiied with ours all through high school.

I can't say enough good about this motor. Friends had them too and one was a Mariner - same motor except the color. I suggest if you get it, bring it in for a normal tune up, fuel filter and new impellor, and you won't have to touch it for another 3 or 4 years, and then it will just be plugs and a impellor every 3 or 4 years. This motor will troll all day long, all weekend long all season long without fouling and you will love it. Can you tell I like ours?

[-Marc V-]

Well, I pulled the trigger...18ft w/ 50hp tiller. She is a 4cyclinder. Love the open floor layout.

I didn't have the compression checked. Had a boat service guy lined up to do it, but then backed-out at the last minute...meat-head. Was so mad I could have spit.

Did get it out on a lake before buying, and she gets up and goes pretty good. Started right away. Carborator may need some adjustment on the idle down.

Nice call on the impeller needing replacement. There was no water flow when in idle, but when the RPM's were bumped up a touch, she spit water fine. Already got the impeller repair kit...that will be a whole new venture.

I'm sure I'll be bugging you guys with plenty of questions.

Thanks for the help!

[BoxMN]

Congrats Mark! You will have fun!

Send me an email if you want to [email protected] . I have an article that will help you, if you want. Not selling anything, just info about your impellor fix.

[-Marc V-]

Hi Box...u have mail.

[BoxMN]

Right back atcha

Good luck, shoot me email if you have any probs or questions.