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1964 Merc 500

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Merc 500

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Hello! I am the proud new owner of the family's old boat. The boat has a 1964 Merc 500 on it and I would like to know if it is worth restoring it.

We had run it last season and as far as I can tell everything ran fine, minus not wanting to shift into reverse. I think I know where the problem is as we had the bottom end out for inspection. Other than this issue everything ran nice and smooth.

Considering the age of this engine, is it worth spending money on restoring things? Are most parts available for something this old or am I out of luck if something major goes?

The boat has sentimental value, but not enough for me to sink thousands into. I would rather just purchase something newer.

Let me know what you guys think,

Thanks.
 
It is a simple engine with a magneto that does not require a charged 12 volt battery to fire up.----Take the time to learn about it's simplicity and how to maintain it.----It will run for many more years.-----Parts are not that hard to find.----Your location.-----Have one here you could pick up for parts.----Start with a compression test.---Or remove the bypass covers to inspect pistons and rings.
 
Someone may have re-installed the LU improperly after replacing the impeller, but you need to check it while the LU is off.

Jeff
 
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Parts are still available for that motor (probably on this site) you use the serial Nr. to locate them, check the compression it should be around 120psi with 10% difference acceptable. The magneto should be inspected and the points set at .008".
Reinstalling the lower unit: This is how I do it in about 60 sec.: Turn the LU shift shaft by hand counter-clockwise until it
stops, then with Vise Grips tight on the bottom of the shaft turn it a
few more degrees CCW until it clicks into a stop, this
should be neutral - check by turning propshaft --
prop should spin freely.
Put control in N and go ahead and attach LU to driveshaft housing some turning of the flywheel will help the DS splines align.
Do not shift into reverse unless you turn the prop at the same time or the motor is running.
There's a manual for it too - 1965 and prior.
 
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Thank you for the replies everyone. I will go ahead and carefully inspect the motor as much as I am comfortable doing. I've gone ahead and purchased the service manual (1965 & prior) which was quite expensive, but worth it.

I am glad to have the chance to give new life to something that gave me so many good memories and joy as a child.
 
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