Seized up -1999 Saltwater Series II 150hp

[amberdog]

So, I used this engine two weeks ago. It has about 400 hours on it. I heard a bit of a ticking noise when I accelerated, it lost power, I put it in neutral and it seized up. I was told that the head gaskets should be replaced every three years or so at the shop we were towed in to, but the place (Yamaha service center) I brought it to in May for a "tune-up" didn't say a word about it. Thoughts?

I see around that I can get a reman powerhead for about $3500, is it worth the time to take the powerhead apart and see if it is something that I can fix? I am somewhat mechanical but not a trained engine tech. Worst thing I can think happening is I learn something about the guts of this thing and still need a new powerhead. Any thoughts on what it might be? I'm thinking threw a rod, but that's just a guess.

If I decide to repower, is this worth much for parts?

Thanks for any input.

[rodbolt17]

never heard of changing the head gasket every 3 years.
I do recommend lift pumps every 3 years.
depends on how much damage internally.
a crank bad will typically scrap the project.

[amberdog]

Thanks for the reply.

[madharchod]

a 1999 model common man i wouldn't spend a penny ,nickel or dime on it as once you start opening it up it will have corrosion and if the crank is gone there is your time wasted ,the bottom line for these two stroke engines are you always put extra oil in the fuel as no harm to engine but change plugs regularly and as for the ticking sound its your top bearing and once no oil reaches there your bearing seizes and so does your engine and it depends how far you run your engine it is going to mark your crankshaft and if the engine was pushed with excessive load say good bye to your power head,i would suggest you trade in this one and get your self a new one

[amberdog]

Thanks, I don't see how it would not have been getting enough oil as it seemed to be drinking about a gallon for every 35 or so going through it. Oh well, a project for me and the boy this winter, it would be good for him to learn something about outboards even if we can't fix it, since he lives on a non ferry served island and is surrounded by boats.

[ausnoelm]

I guess you have nothing to lose, just pull the heads off and have a look, and if it looks OK, go further, either way, it's no good to you as it is.