Marine Mechanic or Surveyor to check the engine?

[doyle007]

Guys,

I've put a deposit on a 1983 AS196, which has a '98 Mercury 135 2-stroke on it.  I want to get the engine checked to make sure that it's going to run for a few years.  

I called a bunch of marinas yesterday near where the boat is located (about an hour north of me), and left a lot of voicemails (most Marinas are apparently closed on Monday). I just received a call back from one of them, and they say that they don't really check over engines to see if it should be sold, but the service manager suggested that I have a marine surveyor inspect the engine.  

Now, the places that I called are all listed on the Mercury website as dealers and service partners, so I'm thinking that a certified Mercury mechanice would be the best person to look it over.  I was kind of surprised when a service manager said that I should get a surveyor instead.  I did speak to a couple of places yesterday, and they said that they don't do that kind of service (they just do rebuilds, fixing, etc.)

So, what do you all think?  I did find a place that will check the compression, gear oil, etc. to see if I'm buying something that will last for a few years, or if the engine is a dog.  I'm just wondering if I should get a surveyor to check it instead of a mechanic.

By the way, I would like to thank RickK for all of his help.  I've been emailing some questions to him, and he's provided me with a great deal of information.  Thanks Rick.

[beast819]

doyle,

IMO I would highly recommend getting yourself a certified marine surveyor because it is their job to inspect every inch of that boat, test the engine thoroughly, and report back to you with their honest opinions.

I was just in your shoes about a month ago and the guy I found was awesome. He did a top to bottom inspection, checked the compression, gear oil, etc.. and also took the boat on a sea trial to insure it indeed ran. After his evaluation and documentation stating what he thought the boats value was it was a no brainer in my decision to purchase the boat.

Of course you must take the boat on a sea trial yourself before purchasing any boat.

Where is the boat you are looking to purchase located?

[John Jones]

I don't know your exact location but here is a reputable surveyor in S. Jersey.  If it's too far, maybe he knows someone in your area.

Send him an Instant Message from this link.
http://outdoorsbest.zeroforum.com/zerou ... le&id=7772

[JimCt]

Likely the surveyor would have a mechanic check the engine.  Basic compression test, lower unit lube oil check for water and a test of the engine in operation on the boat (sea trial) should be all you need.  If yo do buy the rig, have the fuel filter and water pump replaced.

[ralpht44]

A surveyor is the way to go if you are not overly knowledgeable yourself. You would be amazed at the stuff they find. I can recommend a good surveyor in the south jersey area if your interested.