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USED OUTBOARD MOTOR BUYING GUIDE 2024

Based on 22 reviews
Condition: New
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At a glance

Condition
New
Dimensions
6 x 0.07 x 9 in
Weight
3.36 oz
Publisher
Independently published
Publication date
December 15, 2024
Language
English
Print length
29 pages

Description

Used Outboard Motor Buying Guide: Your Essential Step-by-Step Handbook for Finding Reliable and Affordable Motors Used Outboard Motor Buying Guide is your grab-and-go checklist for evaluating a used outboard motor or a boat powered by one. This guide skips the fluff and goes straight to the most important tests and commonly missed issues that can cost you big if overlooked. Whether you're buying your first boat or replacing a motor, this is not an in-depth deep dive into any specific outboard brand or model—but rather a focused and practical field guide based on decades of real-world boat buying experience. You'll learn how to quickly assess compression, lower units, fuel and electrical systems, and more, even if you're not a mechanic. Written by Keith McGowan—also known as @OutboardDad on YouTube—this guide gives you simple checklists, red flags to look for, and tips to help you buy with confidence and avoid regret. If you're short on time and just want to know what really matters before handing over your hard-earned money, this book is for you. Are you in the market for a used outboard motor? This comprehensive guide is designed to help boat enthusiasts, DIY hobbyists, and anyone looking to save money on marine motors make informed, confident buying decisions. Whether you’re seeking a motor that’s ready to use or a project motor you can rebuild for profit, this guide covers every critical step from research to testing to sea trials. Inside, you’ll find: Pre-Purchase Planning: Learn how to assess your needs, set a budget, and determine the best brands and models to look for. Motor Inspection Checklist: A visual and mechanical inspection guide that covers everything from exterior condition to the fuel system, electrical components, lower unit, and more. Compression Testing: Step-by-step instructions for checking engine health, including detailed information on compression readings for 2-stroke and 4-stroke motors. Sea Trial Preparation: Tips for the ultimate test—the sea trial—including what to watch and listen for in the water. Troubleshooting Tips for DIY Repairs: Discover essential maintenance and repair tips for getting a project motor up and running. With clear explanations, practical tips, and real-world examples, this guide will help you avoid common pitfalls, negotiate better deals, and evaluate used motors like a pro. The author, a seasoned outboard motor expert, shares insights from years of buying, rebuilding, and selling used motors, so you’ll gain valuable knowledge no matter your skill level. Get ready to make a smart investment with the Used Outboard Motor Buying Guide and feel confident in your next outboard motor purchase. Read more

Specs 7

Publisher Independently published
Publication date December 15, 2024
Language English
Print length 29 pages
ISBN-13 979-8345417096
Item Weight 3.36 ounces
Dimensions 6 x 0.07 x 9 inches

Frequently asked questions

If you place your order now, the estimated arrival date for this product is: Sunday, Nov 8

Yes, absolutely! You may return this product for a full refund within 30 days of receiving it.

To initiate a return, please visit our Returns Center.

View our full returns policy here.

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Top Amazon Reviews


Invaluable if you don't know where to start when shopping for a used motor
Format: Paperback
I've watched many of Keith's YouTube videos and found them to be extremely helpful as I'm rebuilding my 30 year old outboard motor. Keith promotes his book in his videos and offers advice over the phone to those who purchase it. By itself, I don't think the book would be worth the asking price for me. I know a bit about boat motors. But for someone who is buying their first boat, or has no knowledge or experience with boat motors, this would be a valuable resource. Keith often says in his videos that his mission is to help people have a better boating experience, and to dispel the myth that the two best days are the day you buy a boat and the day you sell it. I think this book helps accomplish that mission, especially for those who don't know where to start when shopping for a used motor. Aside from the book itself, Keith's time and experience are certainly worth a lot, and I was happy to purchase this book to support him. I've benefited greatly from his videos (which I paid nothing for) and from communicating with him personally. I hope he keeps producing quality videos and publishes more guides in the future. I will keep this book on hand as a quick resource to consult next time I'm shopping for a motor, or to lend to someone else. ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on June 23, 2025 by Jonathon E.

Not recommended
Format: Paperback
Overpriced for a basic outline format. Glosses over alot of items that would be of interest to first-time buyers. Compression test information was incomplete. Piston wrist pin test description would be dangerous for a novice- doesn't say rotate by hand, could lead to someone using the starter. Start with Ed Sherman's book instead. ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on August 11, 2026 by Jim

Must-Have info
Format: Kindle
i wish that I had had this guide before I bought my first boat and engine. This is must-have info if you are planning to buy a used outboard motor. Don't put the cart before the horse, or get all excited about owning a boat and make a bad knee-jerk decision that will set you back. i wish I had done my research. It's all laid out right here by a professional. I'll be more prepared in the future. Kudos to you for being here to read this. You're probably on the right track. I wasn't. Buy the book. I wish I had. Would have saved me a lot of grief. ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on July 23, 2025 by Brain

Useful tips for outboard purchase.
Format: Paperback
I've watched alot of Keith's videos in YouTube, and they have been very informative in helping me with my outboard repairs on my optimax 225. I purchased this book to support Keith's new book, and to get a better idea of what to look for when I purchase my next outboard. This book has alot of useful tips I never thought of looking for on a used outboard. I definitely would suggest purchasing if you are in the market. ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on June 20, 2025 by Tyler Leicy

It’s not worth the money
Format: Paperback
I’m subscribed to this guy on YouTube and love his information but this book I’m keeping it but to me it’s not worth the 20 dollars because it’s very small and simple with no a lot of content, I’ll keep it but I definitely not recommend it
Reviewed in the United States on April 4, 2025 by Amazon Customer

Great used outboard buying guide.
Format: Paperback
This buying guide has basic tips for buying a used outboard motor that really helped us in our search for a quality used outboard for our boat. I also looked into the author's online videos, which go into detail regarding outboard motor repair and does a great job of explaining the process. Definitely recommend. ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on January 21, 2025 by L.Beebe

Ken moore
Format: Paperback
Bought Keith's book great information and he has helped me out alot,great guy willing to take the time to help people
Reviewed in the United States on August 1, 2025 by Ken

A MUST for anyone shopping for used outboards
Format: Paperback
Concise and to the point, this handy guide covers everything you need to know to evaluate a used outboard on your own - just buy it!! It's already saved me $100's
Reviewed in the United States on January 16, 2025 by alison
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