June 16th, 2009

Outboard boat motor - shift solenoids need replacement? Cost to repair?

I'm thinking of buying an older (70's) Starcraft American Runabout with an 100hp evinrude outboard mtr. I was told the moto's stuck in forward gear and the shift solenoids need replacement. I was wondering what a mechanic might charge....ballpark figure .... I'm not sure of the age of motor. Also, how much is a tune-up on a boat motor?

I take it you are looking at an outboard motor with electric shifting. I would try to avoid buying any boat with electric shift. They operate differently than other outboards and require special gear lube than other outboards.

Keep in mind most Evinrude&Johnson outboards older than 1977 require you find aftermarket parts. The original manufacturer no longer produces parts for these models and years before 1977.

Just to replace the shift solenoids and nothing else causing the problem, I put the repair about $350 to $400. This is a rough estimate, to find out for sure you need to consult with an OMC tech or have it looked at. While they are doing this, you might as well ask them to check the impeller and replace if needed.

For tune ups, it depends on the condition of the outboard. This could be as little as $100 or as much as $900 depending on what has to be replaced, cleaned, or adjusted.

In short, I recommend you avoid electric shift outboards. They tend to be more problematic to deal with than other outboards regarding on how it shifts.

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