I just put a deposit on a 2001, 13' Boston Whaler Sport with a 40HP
Mercury 2-stroke outboard. The boat and motor are in near flawless
condition aesthetically, and even under the motor cowling looks near
new.

Marine motors dont get as dirty as automitive motors but clean is
always a good sign ...


The boat seems to have had very little use, but I want to make sure I
don't get into trouble with the engine. I've asked the dealer to do a
compression check, and pressure test the lower unit. Is there
anything else I should be concerned with? Any idiosyncracies with
this particular engine?

With a 2 stroke a compression check tells the whole story ...

I would check/replace the impeller as well...

The motor should be checked for carbonization and i would take a look
at the sparkplugs. If its carbonized (will happen quicker when it was
used for trolling) then have it decarbonized.


I've been told that the 40HP Merc. had been around for years, and is
pretty much bulletproof. Aside from it going under water, being run
out of oil, or water in the lower unit, I can't think of anything else
to be concerned with.

Will a compression test uncover any major mechanical issues?

Yes, it will for the powerhead

Problem is, in my 30 years of boating, I've never owned a boat with an
outboard motor, so I'm quite wet behind the ears.

Any advice would be most appreciated...........

I am not a pro but I dont thik there is much more you can check ...

Matt