September 3, 2026 · By Alexis
Wondering if remanufactured outboard motor components are the right option for you? We get it, because we’ve been there. That's why we put our decades of experience to work, bringing together everything you need to know about remanufactured outboard motors in one place.
New vs. Remanufactured vs. Rebuilt
Before we get into details, it's important to understand the distinction between terms. Specifically, new vs. remanufactured vs. rebuilt. A new unit is exactly what it sounds like. New units can come from both OEM and aftermarket suppliers.
A remanufactured unit is built from a used core that has been completely disassembled, cleaned, inspected, and then reassembled with new or reman parts. For instance, an OBR remanufactured gearcase will have new gears, bearings, seals, and O-rings; any other out-of-spec parts are replaced entirely. If done correctly, the finished product performs like a new unit at a more affordable price point.
On the surface, this next term sounds a lot like the former, but there's a very important distinction between the two. While a rebuilt unit is similar to a reman unit in that it's a used core that's been disassembled, the major difference lies in the details. A rebuilt unit is often repaired to functionality; however, there is little emphasis placed on replacing individual parts that show signs of wear. So while these units are operational, their standard is not the same as that of new and remanufactured units. Despite this, the idea that remanufactured and rebuilt units are virtually the same is pretty common, largely because some sellers try to pass rebuilt units off as remanufactured ones. In some cases, this misconception deters people from considering remanufactured units entirely.
In simplest terms:
- New → Never used. New.
- OBR Remanufactured → Disassembled and reassembled core, carefully cleaned and inspected to meet OEM specs, new gears, bearings, seals; held to the same standard as a new unit
- Rebuilt → Disassembled and reassembled core, but not necessarily up to OEM specs; no guarantee the unit will meet the longevity or functionality criteria of a new or reman unit
Why Choose Remanufactured?
Out of the three, a remanufactured unit is the ideal option for dealers looking to save money without sacrificing quality, increase their revenue, or just avoid the hassle of sourcing an OEM part. While these units are held to an extremely high standard, they’re built from used parts, which significantly lowers their price. The OBR Parts & Marine inventory is always fully stocked, with all parts and labor kept in-house. So you can say goodbye to hours spent scouring the internet for the part your customer needs: if we have it, we ship it to you the same day. Job finished faster, customer back on the water sooner.
The OBR Standard
Over 10,000 dealers nationwide trust OBR to deliver quality parts, and for good reason. Our remanufactured units undergo rigorous cleaning, inspection, and testing before they’re ever boxed up for a customer. Each component is given the same attention to detail, and the finished product always conforms to the unit-specific OEM specs. Our specialized machinery has allowed us to master the process, such as our boring machines that match specs up to the ten-thousandth. Even cosmetically, our units are hard to differentiate from OEM. We stand firmly behind the fact that every part sent out is built with the customer in mind and offers the same quality and reliability as a new unit. Backed by a two-year warranty, we are confident in the exceptional standard we hold ourselves and our products to.
Cash for Cores
You might be wondering what sourcing parts for remanufactured units looks like. The cores do have to come from somewhere, and frequently that somewhere is our dealers. Our ongoing “Cash for Cores” program rewards dealers who send in their old cores. All you have to do is send us that pile of cores that's taking up valuable space in your shop. Once received, we’ll evaluate their condition and send you back a check in the mail. Easy as that! Read more about the process here.
Core Credit
Our core credit program also gives dealers a way to receive credit for the parts they’re replacing. Many of the parts that we sell require a “core deposit,” which is due at the time of purchase. Once dealers receive their shipment from OBR, they can send back the failed core to receive core credit, which will go towards the core deposit of the initial purchase.
Is Remanufactured Right for You?
Depending on the business you’re in, the customers you’re helping, and the resources available to you, new, reman, or rebuilt units could be a great fit. But if you’re looking for a more efficient, cost-effective way to provide exceptional service without sacrificing quality, an OBR remanufactured unit is the right choice. If you’re still on the fence, check out our catalog to see if we have what you need. From gearcases and longblocks to bearings and propshafts, we are stocked and ready to help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
