Mercury optimax 2 stroke

[Crazee Horse]

I have the opportunity to buy a 2003 boat with twin 150 hp Mercury Optimaxes. They have 150 hours and have been meticulously maintained. They run great but I know nothing about them or their reliability. So let me know what experiences you have had with them. Thanks.

BTW the boat is a 25 foot Mako. Model 253 WA and is in perfect condition. Any experience there? I really like the looks, reliability and reputation of the Mako. Any comments about this brand or model. Please don't post up the usual Parker, Grady, Judge ............... testimonials. i am not looking at any of those.

THANKS

[striper_on]

I had a Trophy with a 150 Merc. 800hrs. and 5700 miles on the GPS never had a problem! Change thremo when needed, lower unit oil, water pumps, plugs, spray it with silicone sray under the cover. Maintain it and it will run for a long time.

ps: DON'T LET IT SIT. RUN IT!

Good luck

[Crazee Horse]

Thanks for the informtion. Anyone else!

[Kevin Smith]

Several friend's have them with lots of hours and love them. You should probably let a Mercury Certified Shop look at them, just to be sure there isn't a hidden problem.

Dandy Haven Marina, Dandy Haven Rd, Newport News, VA. Tel: 757-851-1573. They are competitively price and a Mercury Certified Shop. Tell Andy I sent you. It will be money well spent to have them checked.

Kevin
Weekend Mistress
Coastal Conservation Association Virginia

[Split Shot-MK]

If you get the boat and need Mercury Premium Plus 2-Stroke Outboard Oil - I have 5.5 gallons for sale for $15 a gallon (that's half price). Available in Va. Beach. Just re-powered with a 4-Stroke so don't need the oil.

[johnnyo]

I got a new 07 for $9000 from some guys that won it in a Tourney. Just turned 200 hours and it runs sweet and strong and starts like a charm EVERY time unless my 1000 amp battery is a liittle low funny thing thing the engine will crank but it won't start. Make sure you don't put that premium plus oil in it, it calls for full synthetic optimax oil! Besides being a little loud they are made to last and run great

[finnfur]

Have 2003 200HP - No problems but maintain well - change fuel filter , use best Merc premium "DFI" synthetic oil [ so far BP best price bulk - bring own container] and add "full throttle" and "seafoam additive" . Clean plugs regularly and change when needed. Close to 400 hrs and no problems.
Takes lots of cold cranking amps to get her going on cold mornings. I use two high amp batteries. Starts real easy rest of day on one.
Good luck

[Split Shot-MK]

Sorry - didn't realize Optimax needs full synthetic.

[rla69]

I have heard nothing but good things about the opti's from 2002 and up,some of the late 90's had some problems but they now have a good reputation.There are many members of this forum who will attest to their power and reliability.

[drewzim]

Have a 2002 135 Opti with 450 hours on it and have never had problem one with it.