Help with 1988 DT55 Tiller & TT

[Tonkadog]

I am looking to purchase a boat that has an 1988' DT55 tiller on it. The motor is one owner freshwater only and in extremely clean condition. As it was explained to me, the owner took the motor out recently after having sat for a awhile and proceeded across the lake. He noticed that his stream of water coming out of the top of the engine was not as strong as normal, then claims that the motor shut down due to overheating.... most likely the impeller or thermostat?

The motor is not seized as I heard it turnover but not start in his driveway. It was not hooked up to muffs, I told him no need to try cranking a second time.

Question. Owner wants it gone.... so having it checked out beforehand is not an option. Without a thorough examination, how much damage could there be to this motor?

I don't know a lot about these motors, so did his motor shut down b/c it had an automatic shut off for protection?

Any help is gladly appreciated.

[mphelle8vld]

There is no auto shutdown on that motor. It could have overheated and damaged the pistons/cylinders and may have low compression in one or more cylinders. I would not buy without at least a compression test, it should have around 120psi in all three.

[Tonkadog]

Assuming the motor got cooked.... what is the best approach ... scrap it or fix it?

If I scrap it, as a tiller that is in great condition, it must have a decent salvage value?

[mphelle8vld]

If it is fried and you can rebuild it yourself it could be worth it depending on the sale price, worst case you could part it out on eb*y. If the compression test comes out well you could easily repair anything else.