You could get the serial numbers and get a Merc dealer to run them and see any history.
If I recall those were a problematic production year, but again this is from an OMC guy.
This is what I would do in general terms for any 2 stroke outboard:
Pull spark plugs - check gap. Don't put in new plugs until you verify she's a runner.
squirt in MMO or 2-stroke oil trying to distribute throughout the combustion chamber
turn flywheel by hand in correct direction to ensure everything is free turning.
Ensure a fresh fuel supply at recommended mix ratio - safety net until you ensure it's self-oiling properly
Hook up fuel system and perform cold compression check - use a fresh battery.
If all checks out thus far, plugs back in, make sure you have an appropriate water supply hooked up and try to fire her up.
Make sure she pees. Feel the pee stream and make sure the t-stats are opening & closing - you can feel the temp change.
Just my 2¢
