A Fantastic Resource for Older Outboard Motors, Especially Mercury and OMC!…read more
A few years ago, I purchased an older boat with a Mercury two-stroke outboard motor. The engine was generally in good condition but had plenty of deferred maintenance. I was having trouble getting the motor to perform properly at higher RPMs, and a close friend recommended Sea-Way Marine.
Like many DIY boat owners, I spent plenty of time researching the problem through online forums, YouTube videos, and troubleshooting guides. I eventually traced the issue to the engine's switch boxes. After replacing them, the motor was running great again. Throughout the process, I appreciated the knowledgeable guidance and, more importantly, the availability of parts for an older Mercury outboard that many other marine shops no longer support.
In addition to buying parts, I have also had Seaway provide service to my boat. Scheduling was relatively easy in communication was great as with these older boats there are sometimes mysterious causes. The load test at Seaway wasn't working at the time I needed them so there was some guessing involved, but it turned out.
Over the past few years, I've ordered quite a few parts while working through various maintenance and repair projects. I've also used websites like MarineEngine.com, which offers excellent exploded diagrams and detailed parts breakdowns that make identifying exactly what you need much easier.
One interesting discovery was that parts I ordered through other online retailers were actually shipping from Lynnwood, Washington, just north of Seattle! I eventually learned that Sea-Way Marine is one of the largest suppliers and stockists of older Mercury and OMC outboard parts. It's pretty impressive to have that kind of inventory and expertise right here in the Pacific Northwest.
One thing worth mentioning is pricing. While Sea-Way has an incredible selection, ordering directly from them doesn't always mean getting the lowest price. On one occasion, I was placing an order directly and noticed that another online retailer was offering the exact same part for approximately 60% less. I asked Sea-Way if they could match or come close to the price, as I would have preferred to purchase directly from them. They couldn't, and actually suggested that I order through the other retailer instead. I appreciated their honesty, but it does pay to shop around, even when the parts may ultimately come from the same warehouse!
My other minor complaint is their operating hours. Getting to the Lynnwood location during the workweek can be challenging, and weekend availability is limited. Fortunately, their online ordering process is straightforward, and shipping costs are very reasonable, making it easy to get what you need without driving up there.
Bottom line: If you're maintaining or restoring an older Mercury or OMC outboard, Sea-Way Marine is an outstanding resource. Finding parts for engines that are 30-plus years old can be a real challenge, and having a business that specializes in keeping these motors running is invaluable.
Between their extensive inventory, knowledgeable staff, and convenient shipping, they've earned my repeat business. Just compare prices before ordering!
Highly recommended, and I'll definitely continue coming back!