Top 7 Hard-to-Find Outboard Parts (And Where to Get Them Fast)

If you are a boater and own a vintage outboard, you know the unique joy it brings. But if a part fails mid-journey, that joy can quickly turn into frustration. Also, finding replacements for the worn-out parts of your old motor is akin to searching for a needle in a haystack. Whether you're dealing with a vintage Mercury, an aging Yamaha, or a discontinued Evinrude model, certain outboard engine parts seem to vanish from the market so fast.

I have spent years helping my clients keep their boat motors on track and get back on the water. During this time, I have figured out the most challenging part of an outboard motor to locate, and most importantly, where to find them. Stick with me, boaters! As I will delve into the details of your hard-to-find outboard parts.

1. Water Pump Impellers for Older Models

The water pump impeller is the most crucial part of your outboard, as it serves as the primary cooling system. If it breaks, the engine overheats, and you know the rest of the story. Therefore, if your vintage outboard is more than 15 years old and it loses its impeller, there is a high likelihood that you won't be able to find a replacement. Impellers are readily available for newer models, but not for older ones.

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Why are they hard to find? When a particular outboard motor’s production is stopped, the experts shift their focus to new technology and models; thus, the manufacturing of the older parts diminishes after 10-15 years. Even the impellers available are model-specific, and their rubber also starts to degrade and become unusable.

Where to find them fast:

• Local marine salvage yards typically have impellers in good condition, especially for older motors.
• Online dealers such as OBParts offer an extensive range of water pump impellers, which also includes those for the outdated motors.
• On eBay Motors, you can find reputable sellers offering vintage impellers with a returnable policy.

Pro Tip: When installing a new impeller, always replace its housing and wear plate as well. These are not expensive and can help prevent impeller breakage early on.

2. Carburetor Rebuild Kits for Discontinued Engines

The outboard engines, which have not been used for a long time, mostly have problems with their Carburetor. The function of the Carburetor is to mix oxygen with fuel to aid the engine in combustion.

However, when the engine is not used for a long time, the Carburetor gets clogged or jammed and requires a rebuild. Nevertheless, repairing the Carburetor is not easy these days because the necessary tools are not readily available. A carburetor rebuild kit is very important to fix the issue.

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Why are they hard to find? Ethanol fuel is a potentially damaging factor for the carburetor, which, as a result, creates a high demand for them. However, manufacturers often overlook this issue and maintain their primary focus on the fuel injection system. This is why the demand for carburetors is high, but their availability is low.

Where to find them fast:

• Amazon is a reliable market that offers aftermarket carburetor rebuild kits
• Local small engine repair shops often have old stock or know where to source rare kits

Pro tip: If you find a carburetor rebuild kit, buy multiple at once, as they are hard to find. Take advantage of them when the opportunity arises.

3. Starter Motor Solenoids and Relays

If you find your motor dead even before your trip starts, your whole mood and day are ruined. Solenoids and relays control the motor, and their failure is a significant reason why your motor may fail. If your solenoids and relays stop working, you may find it challenging to locate a replacement.

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Why are they hard to find? They are installed in a hard-to-reach section and are even difficult to locate in the parts catalogue. Many of these parts are also replaced by newer versions, which makes them even more challenging to find.

Where to find them fast:

• Amazon has many cost-effective options if you want to buy
• It's always a good idea to check with your local auto parts store. Some have them, some don’t

Pro tip: Marine solenoids are specifically designed for use in saltwater environments. They may not function effectively in harsh marine conditions.

4. Trim and Tilt Motor Assemblies

These are the parts of the control system of the boat that handle the speed, direction, and overall performance of the boat. The trim and tilt motor precisely adjusts the engine’s angle, but when these parts fail, you will face challenges in finding new ones.

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Why are they hard to find? These parts are very complex and expensive. You won't be able to find them with your local dealer. Moreover, for installation, they also require a lot of hardware, which has also become scarce on the market.

Where to find them fast:

• Boat salvage yards will have them, but make sure you test before buying.
• Many online dealers offer a variety of remanufactured parts

5. Flywheel and Stator Assemblies

Flywheels and stators are components of the ignition system. One notable aspect about them is that they do not fail gradually; instead, they shut down suddenly, without any warning. Furthermore, finding replacements is a real challenge.

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Why are they hard to find? These parts are complex, engine-specific, and expensive, even for the manufacturer. Moreover, the manufacturing requirements are also very high, as they require precise timing adjustments that vary between model years, making universal parts impossible.

Where to find them fast:

• Local marine electricians mostly rebuildable cores
• Motor parts companies offer a range of marine ignition parts.

Note: Aftermarket ignition components have improved dramatically; don't automatically assume you need OEM parts for reliable performance.

6. Fuel Injection Components for Older DFI Engines

Direct Fuel Injection (DFI) engines from the early 2000s have become outdated and are now starting to fail. As a result, they are increasingly difficult to find, and even when available, they are very expensive.

Why are they hard to find? The DFI technology evolved rapidly, and the models used in the early 2000s are no longer in use or manufactured. Fuel injectors, pressure regulators, and ECU modules are precision components that often lack aftermarket support.

Where to find them:

• You can find multiple stores on eBay that deal in fuel injections for DFI engines.
• Online marine forums are the place where you can launch enquiries and discuss your concerns with other people in the industry.

Pro tip: Contaminated fuel systems are a big reason for DFI problems; make sure to keep it high quality.

7. Cooling System Thermostats and Housings

The function of the thermostat and housing is to maintain the engine's temperature. These are simple parts, but when they are from an old motor, finding them becomes a real challenge.

Why are they hard to find? The thermostats and housing designs are different for different model years. Even a slight difference makes it impossible to install them in a different model. That is why finding the exact piece for your very own outboard is a real challenge.

Where to find them fast:

• Online marine parts shops offer various types of thermostats.
• Local automotive parts stores also have what you need.

Note: If you use the wrong temperature thermostat, your engine might overheat, so make sure you make the right choice.

Quick-Source Strategy: Where to Look First

If you want to find your worn-out outboard parts fast, follow this sequence:

• Start by checking your local marine dealers; they often have old parts available.
• Search online stores that deal in marine parts, but also look for authentic ones. If you find one, check the customer review section first
• Join brand-specific Facebook groups to connect with people who have experienced the same thing. They can also guide you on where to find the motor part.

 These approaches will help you find your required motor part quickly.

Final Thoughts

Hard to find outboard parts don’t have to destroy your boating experience. If you know where to look for old motor parts and how to build relationships with potential sellers, you've got it. Bookmark the recommended sources, try to stock up on critical tool kits during off-season, and follow other tips to find your worn-out part fast.

If you own an old motor, it’s wise to keep a spare on hand for emergencies. Also try to build up positive relationship with the boating community around you, they are very helpful when you are facing challenges finding the right motor parts.