What to look for on a unmounted outboard before purchasing?

[jmshipp50]

I am looking at a couple of late 80's OMC outboards that are not mounted on a boat. How do you assess their condition if they are not mounted and have no power? Is there a way to check the compression? Is there anything I should look for?

I am not one to "hope" it is ok; so, I am trying to figure out if I should just stay away or not.

Thanks for any insite and recommendations.

Mike

[TEXAS20225]

will the seller not offer and perform a compression check for YOU??i have motors on stands and i can and do start any of them for prospective buyers if these option are not available i would not be available to shell out my money on a "well they wuz running when we took um off story"

[albypine]

could do compression test with out running it and pull heads to get a look... head gaskets are cheep

[jerry1865]

compression can be checked by hooking up a battery to the solenoid, as well as a remote trigger (starter button) if you have one handy.

i would throw a spark gap gauge on it as well. if both of those check out good then id put the shifter in forward and grab the prop and turn it, if it turns the flywheel in both directions in both gears its usually a pretty good sign that its ok.

it normally takes me about 45 minutes to check out a v6 or v8 but its well worth it, because i find those (surprizes) before we get to the negotiating part.

i know this whole process isnt really good for the water pump, but id rather have to replace the impeller than be surprized after i get it home.