I am considering, thinking, pondering but sorta scared of a 1998 208 with a 2003 Johnson 150 2 stroke. Not a Ficht but a J150 something. I would appreciate any opinions on this engine. Is it enough engine for this boat? I repeat it is a carburetor 2 stroke. Fuel and oil consumption? I imagine a lot of each. Also they said it does not have an hour meter so they don't know how many hours are on the engine. This could be an economical purchase or a real PITA.
Opinion on 2003 Johnson 150
- Thread starter Grady_Crazy
- Start date
My First one was a 98 208 with a 150 carbed Yami. The motor was adequate and with a light load and got to about 40 mph. 3-4 guys with gear in the ocean would be a struggle in a head sea with wind. Other than that, get a mechanical survey for the Johnson. A compression test should tell a lot about the combustion chambers. If she starts and responds well, carbs are good for a while. How about maintenance records like water pump, t -stats' , filters,Those motors were pretty dependable due to simplicity. Yea she will drink some fuel and oil. In a purchase like this, I would mainly consider the hull to be the primary consideration for value and not place much value in the 12 year old, unknown useage motor. Trailer, cushions, pumps, deck hatches condition, canvas, electronics age and condition would also be some value considerations. Good luck with your decision either way.
Great motors, east to work on, easy to fix, cheap to maintain, nothing too expensive on them like there would be on an EFI outboard. Keep your fuel clean, drain the carbs in the winter (and at least clean them every year or two), change your normal wear an tear items annually and they will last. They are thirsty with fuel/oil but I would take that along with their simplicity any day. Do compression, check the LU oil and/or have it pressure/vac checked, and try and get a meter to see if the engine is putting out voltage while running. Little things like this will cover potential expensive problems if everything checks out ok.
Can't comment on the boat, I would say bay test it before you make your decision. I had a 1988 20' overnighter with the original 150 Rude on it and it was comfortable.
Every Johnson/Rude Ocean Pro/Runner I've owned, I've always bypassed the VRO oil injection side of the pump and premixed my fuel. Never had one problem. I think it was the earlier VRO pumps that weren't as reliable (no oil alarm) not working properly. But I would always premix either way. I love these motors and actually recently purchased one that needs a new powerhead (hole in one piston) for my 24' offshore I'm restoring.
Good Luck!
Can't comment on the boat, I would say bay test it before you make your decision. I had a 1988 20' overnighter with the original 150 Rude on it and it was comfortable.
Every Johnson/Rude Ocean Pro/Runner I've owned, I've always bypassed the VRO oil injection side of the pump and premixed my fuel. Never had one problem. I think it was the earlier VRO pumps that weren't as reliable (no oil alarm) not working properly. But I would always premix either way. I love these motors and actually recently purchased one that needs a new powerhead (hole in one piston) for my 24' offshore I'm restoring.
Good Luck!
I think I will make them an offer if the the compression is OK. The boat is dirty but it looks like it will clean up. Let's see if they are insulted with the offer.
Fishtales
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I think you are on the right track. Just preface the offer with some facts:
- older hull - you should ensure your offer is contingent upon a survey. If cheap enough, maybe don't do it, but older hulls are always a risk for transom rot, soft decks and other issues. Might want to get one.
- old motor - basically rolling the dice that you won't have a big repair or require a replacement in year 1.
- condition - if people keep their boats poor, you have to assume they are cutting corners elsewhere like maintenance.
Toss it out there and work from there. Always can walk and see if they contact you. Good time of year to buy too, I'd say for the next couple of months time is on your side.
- older hull - you should ensure your offer is contingent upon a survey. If cheap enough, maybe don't do it, but older hulls are always a risk for transom rot, soft decks and other issues. Might want to get one.
- old motor - basically rolling the dice that you won't have a big repair or require a replacement in year 1.
- condition - if people keep their boats poor, you have to assume they are cutting corners elsewhere like maintenance.
Toss it out there and work from there. Always can walk and see if they contact you. Good time of year to buy too, I'd say for the next couple of months time is on your side.