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2006 Honda 150 Compression

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Guardian18

New member
New to the site, thank you for all of the existing information. I’ve read as much as I can find regarding compression test results, just hoping for an opinion to put me at ease. Looking at purchasing a 2006 150 hp outboard, with hours reported at less than 250. Compression results on all cylinders, 165-170 psi, cold engine, throttle NOT set at WOT. Unfortunately the outboard is many states away from me, I wish I could find something closer, but not much of a selection right now. Certainly not the best case scenario, trying to purchase a used outboard based on photos and a conversation.

Thank you in advance.
 
After putting some thought into this, it probably makes more sense to ask that the compression test be conducted correctly, not sure that it’s even possible to answer my original question.
 
Well, I for one agree with you. Doing the test correctly should be done to provide you with reliable information. With the low hours you should be seeing close to new cylinder pressures.

Good luck.
 
Doesn’t sound like the seller is interested in rigging the outboard up, to perform another compression test, so I’ve decided to pass on this opportunity. Thank you for your insight. As a rule of thumb, although definitely inaccurate, would a compression test results typically be found to be on the low side of the spec, if the correct steps were not followed ?
 
Yes, if not performed with the throttle plate open, the engine can't draw in enough air to compress. That would result in low readings.

Not trying to influence your decision but the pressures you listed are about what I would expect from making that error during testing.

It's really unfortunate that the seller isn't willing to help put your mind at ease by doing another test. It's really not that difficult or involved.

Good luck.
 
jgmo, I believe the outboard is now off of the boat and would require to be re-hung or set up on a stand to complete the test, so maybe that’s where the reluctant is. I know that used outboards have inherent risks, but those compression numbers wouldn’t be a deal killer for you ? I’ve always been a 2 stroke Yamaha guy, but the mid-section corrosion issues have scared me away from the used 4-stroke Yamahas.
 
I really don't care for the idea of a long distance deal like this. You REALLY need to be on top of the potential for things to go wrong. There are just way too many sellers trying to take advantage of trusting buyers. If you can't see it running first hand (recordings don't count!!!), smell it, or touch it, I would HIGHLY recommend you pass on it..... There is the possibility a local dealer would be willing to check it out for you. If you could arrange for something like that - as long as this dealer isn't the seller - that might work out well for you. Won't be free, but if you have a serious deal cooking, it might be worth every cent.
 
I am in agreement with Alan. I was going to answer you with a "I wouldn't be interested in a long distance purchase like this" and he beat me to it. But that's just me (and Alan) and I know used outboards get shipped every day.

I will say further that those compression numbers MIGHT be legitimately fine if what the guy is saying is true. But you're looking at buying a 15 year old, used outboard sight unseen. So, in my opinion, you need to be SUPREMELY confident about the veracity of all you're being told.

Then again, I'm fortunate enough to live near two major waterfront boating centers...Los Angeles and San Diego. So, I have the luxury of being within driving distance of any marine equipment that catches my eye.

Not necessarily the encouragement that you may be looking for I know. It's HARD to pass on something you want, need and appears to be a great buy. But I can't, with good conscience, say "go for it"!

Caveat Emptor and all that.

Whatever you decide I do wish you good fortune and I will leave you with some of the wisest words ever said to me:

The deal of the century comes along almost every week.
 
I couldn’t agree more about how quickly “deals of the century” come up. I think I’m going to let the dust settle and see if something comes up, closer to me. Thank you to everyone for your direction and wise recommendations, love this site, I’ve spent some serious time hear already, and learned much.
 
Well, patience is best for fisherman AND fish. After all none would ever get caught if they kept their mouth closed.;>)

If your seller suddenly finds that it may be a bit more difficult to move an outboard rapidly approaching 2 decades he may actually get in the mood to convince you that all is well.

It sounds to me that you were probably willing to pay a fair price for the Honda so maybe he'll have a change of heart about working with you.

Good luck.
 
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