I have just bought a 13 foot Boston Whaler with a 40 horse Merc. on it to fly fish the salt. It is a nice platform to work from but the motor needs work. This is why the price was right. I am fairly mechanical as my business is Fuel and hydraulic systems on boats, heavy equipment, generators etc. My queston is ... Are these over sized eggbeaters something a guy can work on himself or are they so much voodoo that it is best left to a shop

You don't say what year the motor is, but it doesn't sound "new". IMHO there aren't many simplier engines than a two-stroke outboard. Get a repair manual and go for it!! I have a 84 70hp Johnson. There is no way that I would ever bring it to a shop. Not worth the repair $. If I can't fix it, it is time for a new Yamaha!!! (I'm hoping it blows up soon)

It is a 91 Merc. two stroke 40

I agree with ET.

Have plenty of easy-outs, heli-coils, and colorful languge standing by for when you start twisting off bolt heads.

Remember, if that motor was mostly used in the salt, they rot from the inside out.

I think the job is way to complicated for you, and the motor is probably junk!
However.....seein as how I'm a nice guy and always willing to help out when a guy is in a spot, I would give you a hundred bucks for it if it's oil injected, just needs plugs and has a stainless prop.

herm

p.s.
Is it electric start and does it have power trim?


I'd say go for it if your not in too much of a hurry. A little heat goes a long ways on those stuck bolts, try to get the aluminum hot and the bolts cool. Use 6-point sockets and wrenches if you can.

GOOD LUCK