88 Osprey 170 w/1980 88spl engine trouble

[rberry3000]

My 88 osprey 170 lost power this weekend, after inspecting the spark plugs I found one plug smashed and a metal fragment jammed up inside the plug. I am thinking the metal piece was a part of a broken ring or rod bearing. there was also some pitting in the piston and head cover. I am thinking bad rod bearing since it looks like the top of the piston hit the spark plug. My thoughts are this engine is toast. so rather than invest in rebuilding the powerhead I found another engine that I believe will bolt right on, the engine I found is a 1983 Johnson 115 that was recently rebuilt. I just wanted to get some input from others on whether I am heading in the right direction or not.

[RickK]

Sounds like you're right.

[Capt. Bob]

I found is a 1983 Johnson 115 that was recently rebuilt. I just wanted to get some input from others on whether I am heading in the right direction or not.

I ran a 115 Johnson (85) on my 86 170 and it was stupid fast. The hull handles that size engine well.

You could also look for a 90hp 3 cylinder. Though not as invigorating as the 115, it is well matched to the hull as to size, weight and fuel economy. Just depends what you want to do with the boat aka, how you use it.

Good luck.