Video Bob Loc: Norfolk, Va

After much searching for a 9.9 for my 14' Jon boat I finally found a 1986 four stroke Yamaha motor that seems to be in pretty decent condition. (Starts on 1st pull & sounds strong)
Would like some feedback (good or bad) on this engine. Is it a reliable trouble-free engine that won't let me sitting "dead in the water" at 2 in the morning? (do a lot of nite fishing)

Jeremy Loc: America

If it starts runs good pumps water warms up and still runs good. There is NOT a lot of things it needs for keeping it running.

Thermostat Impeller Spark Plugs few other things and Oil can probably function for years.

Fuel pump one other 20 dollar item they need from time to time. Knowing history of the motor is good to learn. If not corroded from salt etc probably good motor.

Robert J Samples Loc: Round Rock, Texas

There are devices to check the compression. That is the only other thing you might want to check, but otherwise it sounds fine. Just Sayin...RJs

Catfish hunter Loc: Riggins idaho (Paradise)

I’ve got two of those about that vintage. Never an issue with mine but they’ve been well taken care of. One was my uncles and another one I bought from a friend and I knew both motors personally. If it’s been taken care of it’ll last you for ever. If not it’s a gamble like anything else. I’d have the compression checked first thing but if it’s tarts good, sounds good and don’t smoke that a good start. Depending on the price. My uncle just gave me his and I paid $600.00 for the one from my buddy. I’d say a good one is worth a grand pretty easy. I run one on the back of my youngest son’s 21 foot aqua sport and the other is on my oldest boy’s 21 foot tracker. I run a 9.9 four stroke merc on my 18 foot Lund and it pushes it along real nice for trolling on the Columbia for salmon and plenty of power for any lake I want to take it on.

USAF Major Loc: Sea Bright, NJ

Might I suggest one of the commercial boat towing companies? $150 a year keeps the fretting down at home as well as your own peace of mind.

bapabear Loc: Blaine, Washington

Be sure it keeps running smooth at idle when you put it in and out of gear both forward and reverse. It is best to test the motor in a boat on the water so that you can test it under load.

Scudrnr Loc: Hancock, Wisconsin

My youngest brother used to wrench for a dealership that handled several brands. He swore by Yamaha four strokes. They had fewer problems and when they did have one, they were easier to work on.