Posted by 68eastport on 09/20/16 - 11:08 PM
#1
So I've always wanted a Whaler and finally was able to obtain one. I think I did pretty well on the purchase but not sure. I got a 1968 Eastport. 80 hp merc with power tilt and trailer. It was a barn find that I would give a 8 out of 10 the prop still has factory paint. I can't find any stress cracks at all. The wood took the worst abuse only with the clear pealing in parts. Do you guys have any idea of a value on something like this?
Posted by fitz73222 on 09/21/16 - 2:10 AM
#2
Nice, congratulations!
It has the original
1968 red band Merc? One of my favorite year Mercs. BUT, you have some work to do before you try to start that engine. The main issue with older Mercs is corroded harness wiring and carbon steel shift shaft and driveshaft which typically corroded in the seal area. The water pump impeller is toast so you need to drop the gearcase and replace it otherwise the impeller pieces will break off and try to migrate up into the powerhead cooling passages causing a host of cooling problems. While the gearcase is off you can see the level of corrosion on the shift shaft and driveshaft. Post some pictures of what you have.
Edited by Joe Kriz on 09/21/16 - 2:49 PM
Posted by 68eastport on 09/21/16 - 8:10 AM
#3
Thanks for the heads up on starting the engine but the guy I got it from had already run it for a bit just putting gas to it. I did go through the boxes of spare parts the original owner had and he had a new in package impeller and gasket kit. That will be this weekends project. I would post pics but for one reason or another the site won't allow me to.