. If I knew a boat of engine had been in the hands of the RNLI for 10 years , I would consider it only 5 years old compaired to an engine that someone says has been looked after, "honest mate!".
The engines are looked after don't get me wrong and I'd happily buy one but they will have been well used. ie Starting the engine it running for 10 or 20 seconds then it getting full throttle as soon as the bow touches the water!
I was in on the ground floor when the mariner 40hp was in the R&D stage , it was an interesting time, I spent time with the R.N.L.I. at Cowes during this period and at differant stations around the U.K. and Ireland
I bought a johnson 40 off highams last year was ok on quality left a bit to be desired on overall service and i agree they are a touch pricey but they seem to know outboards,note of caution make sure your steering link will match up as they don,t supply with the engine
