How Many Hours On A Boat Motor Is Too Many?
When it comes to buying a used boat, one of the key factors to consider is the number of hours it has on the motor. But how many hours on a boat is considered “a lot”?
Boat motors can last for hundreds or even thousands of hours with proper maintenance (Especially Diesel Motors); however, if you are purchasing a used boat (With Gas Engines), it is normal to consider 1000 hours to be “a lot” and 1500 hours to be potentially “too many.”
If you determine that the boat’s motor or motors were not adequately cared for, you should probably shift that to 500 hours being “a lot” and 1000 hours being “too many.”
Still, even that standard depends on how neglected you determine the motor to be.
Ultimately, the best and maybe the only way to determine if a boat has too many hours on it is to consult a qualified marine mechanic or, better yet, an Accredited Marine Surveyor.
They will be able to assess the condition of the motor (And the boat) and advise you on whether it is still in good working order or if it should be replaced.
Engine Hours To Miles On A Car (Simple Formula)
There is no scientific formula for comparing hours on a boat engine to miles, as the relationship between the two is not a straightforward one, but a simple formula you can use to help you convert boat hours to miles would be:
- 1 Hour + 100 Miles
FAQ
The 1000 hour service is known as the “Colling system maintenance”, which addresses the heat exchanger, power steering oil cooler, intercooler, gear box, oil cooler, fuel cooler, sea water cooled exhaust riser, and the seawater cooled engine oil cooler.
The average 4-stroke outboard motor will last between 800-1300 hours. However, a well-maintained outboard motor can easily run between 1500-2000 hours.
As 4-stroke outboard motors do not have carburetors, it is not necessary to run them out of gas for fear of blocking the jets.