Mercury 5MXLH FourStroke

This used Mercury 5MXLH FourStroke carries the longer x-long shaft, 25 inches, built for a taller transom than Mercury's short-shaft 5hp tiller outboards use. It starts manually and runs on carbureted gasoline rather than the propane fuel some similar-looking Mercury models burn. Tiller steering and a single-cylinder engine keep it simple to operate and service at the dock or in the driveway.

What's inside the 5MXLH

The single cylinder displaces 123 cc, or 7.5 cubic inches, spinning a 2.15:1 gearcase and topping out between 4500 and 5500 rpm at full throttle. Mercury's own figure for dry weight is 57 lbs. Handling features six manual trim positions, plus a shallow water setting that opens the trim range by 16 degrees.

Fuel and running

An integrated 0.3-gallon (1.1-liter) fuel tank handles short trips, or connect an optional 3.2-gallon (12-liter) tank for longer runs on recommended 87-octane fuel with up to 10 percent ethanol. Ignition runs on CDI with electronic spark advance, and exhaust vents through the propeller. Expect some wear on a used engine like this one; we can share what we know about its hours if you ask before ordering.

Does this include a propeller? Mercury's own specifications for this model show a propeller as included.

What fuel does this motor need? Standard 87-octane gasoline with up to 10 percent ethanol, drawn from either fuel tank. Mercury outboards