There are several methods to locate and purchase a used outboard, mainly if you shop online. However, when you buy a secondhand outboard, you should clearly inspect the motor and ensure that it operates before dealing with any money. To buy outboard parts at a reasonable price you can visit B&A Onderdelen. Here are some pointers to help you select the best-used hand outboard.

1. Checking to Make Sure the Outboard Fits:

The very first thing you should look at is whether or not the motor will integrate into your boat. Outboard motor shaft lengths vary to fit varied transmission heights, so make sure the motor you're considering will really work with your boat.

2. Visual Check for Damage:

Visually check the outboard motor carefully. Examine the cowl to ensure it is intact and in excellent condition. If the cowl appears to be fresh new, make sure to inquire as to why. Examine the propeller for cracks and debris around the shaft. Inspect the prop and anodes for rust.

3. Examination of the Lower Unit Oil:

While you're looking at the lower unit, unlock the drain bolt for a second and inspect the oil that flows out. It's a positive indicator if the oil is black. If the lower unit oil is murky or milky, it indicates a problem with the seals and perhaps water penetration.

4. Inquiry On the Water Pump:

Make sure to question the owner about the water pump, specifically when it was last replaced. If the owner can tell you about the water pump's condition, you'll have a better understanding of how well the motor has been cared for.

5. Examining the Cowl Gasket:

After thoroughly inspecting the bottom unit, remove the cowl from the powerhead and check the gasket at the base to determine whether it's securely fastened in place.

6. Taking out the Dipstick:

Before you start an engine, it's a good idea to learn more about what's happening inside. If you're operating with a 4-stroke, the simplest way to do so is to remove the dipstick and inspect the oil.

7. Examining the Spark Plugs:

Check the spark plugs to see if they are greasy or have metal shavings on them since these are both very dangerous symptoms. If the plugs are black, the motor is probably running a little rich, which isn't a big concern.

8. Verifying Control Compatibility:

From a financial aspect, it's important to ensure that the engine you're considering has the appropriate controls for your boat.

In other words, the controls you have may not be compatible with the motor you've chosen. If they aren't compatible, and you don't receive the controls with the outboard, you'll have to pay extra money to purchase suitable controls before you head out on the water.

9. Take a run test:

After checking the used outboard motor, try it out if you can, preferably if it's still linked to a boat you could get in the water with.

Check to see if the motor starts smoothly and if it cranks up right away or if it requires some effort to get going. Feel how it operates after it's started, and look for smoke and strange odors.