Cracked! - Need a lower unit for Honda BF40 (1997)

Wood Zeppelin · Posted: Mon Apr 15, 2024 9:29 pm Post subject:

Salmon Fisher,

Thanks for your response. And yes, I appreciate your comment and do not take offense. Analysis paralysis does set in sometimes!

In this case, I do plan to just get an entire lower unit. But I have some options:

(1) I can spend the big bucks ($1500) for the upgraded version which won't crack like the old ones*

(2) Get a used original one* ($750)

(3) get a used version of the upgraded model* ($1000)

* what I've learned is that the older ones *Won't* crack if they are maintained - which means pulling out the locknut once a year and cleaning and greasing the threads.. But with 5 boat motors, two 4x4's and three houses to maintain, I'm starting to want to reduce all the maintenance items!

I'm open to thoughts/feedback!

Salmon Fisher · Posted: Tue Apr 16, 2024 12:12 am Post subject:

All those things to maintain is a lot for sure.

When I owned 2 boats, a cruiser and a fishing boat, travel trailer, 3 vehicles and the house, it was too much. We know have one boat, the 25 Cruiser, which serves both cruising and fishing. It sure has taken the pressure off.

My suggestion:

Purchase the lower unit that you think is best and install it. I would then think about selling one of the boats. Boats invariably take more time to keep up than vehicles.

The 3 houses, wow, lots to maintain there.

Good luck.

Wood Zeppelin · Posted: Tue Apr 16, 2024 2:49 am Post subject:

I agree about the lower unit, and I agree about maintenance.. I was waiting to find a buyer for one of my boats who would give me first right of refusal if they ever wanted to sell. I found them, so I'll be selling to them soon. I keep one C-dory in Southern Utah (Near Lake Powell), and my current main boat (22' Angler) stays in the PNW. It does everything I want, from Salmon fishing to cruising to boat camping!

Here's my question, but first a few things to consider: The shop says my motor (the top half) is running fine, good compression, etc. However, it is a 1998, 26 years old. I prefer the newer design because I like that it's a smarter design, maintenance free, would never have any issues. But does it makes sense to spend the extra money for a brand new upgraded lower unit to put on a motor that's 26 years old!?

ssobol · Posted: Tue Apr 16, 2024 9:01 am Post subject:

Salmon Fisher · Posted: Tue Apr 16, 2024 9:50 am Post subject:

Are you talking about the 16 you are keeping or selling?

If it is the one you are selling, just fix it and send it down the road.

If it's the one you are keeping then you'll have to think about your piece of mind. If it were me, I'd probably put the lower unit on it and run it. Then keep an eye out for a newer, used motor that checks all the boxes.

Wood Zeppelin · Posted: Tue Apr 16, 2024 1:24 pm Post subject:

Yes, thanks for asking.. it's the 16' I'll be keeping (not selling).

Yes, I'll just put a lower unit on, and be back in action! But the question is weather to get a used one for cheaper, and then keep an eye on it, or the new upgraded one that won't require special attention, but is twice the price..

Wood Zeppelin · Posted: Tue Apr 16, 2024 1:28 pm Post subject:

and considering that although in good condition now, the rest of the motor is 16 years old.

So putting a new lower unit on there will probably outlast the rest of the motor by a longshot?, or can I expect the rest of the motor (Honda) to also hold up for the long haul, knowing it's current in good condition..

Salmon Fisher · Posted: Tue Apr 16, 2024 2:23 pm Post subject:

1) Put the lower unit on that is priced in the middle of the range.

2) Run it.

3) Keep on eye on newer used motors or...

4) When you sell the other 16, use some of the proceeds to purchase a brand new motor for the boat you are going to keep.

That's what I would do and I over analyze everything.

Call Sportcraft Marina in Oregon City, ask for Ryan, get a quote on a brand new Honda or Suzuki, they do both. You'll be pleasantly surprised at what he says.

Wood Zeppelin · Posted: Tue Apr 16, 2024 5:52 pm Post subject:

Good plan, I like it!

Thanks for your input.

Been out fishing lately?

Salmon Fisher · Posted: Tue Apr 16, 2024 6:53 pm Post subject:

Just when Area 10 was open in March. Got one 7 lb keeper and released a few under sized.

Looking forward to shrimping next month and then salmon starting in July through fall.

Wood Zeppelin · Posted: Wed Apr 17, 2024 3:01 am Post subject:

Nice.. Would you say the 7 pounder was a Springer, or a Blackmouth?

Salmon Fisher · Posted: Wed Apr 17, 2024 9:27 am Post subject: