Yamaha Outboard issues??

[NAMASafetyDirector]

So I am boat shopping and have been looking a few boats with Yamaha 225-250 outboards. In doing some research I have found countless bad reports with the early 2000's model year engines having a big problems with exhaust corrosion. Just wondering if anyone out there has had or has know anyone who has had to deal with this issue? It sounds like it has been difficult if not impossible to get any sort or assistance from Yamaha on warranty. Im just trying to do my due diligence before i get myself into trouble. If anyone out there is in the same boat (no pun intended) as me it might serve you well to spend a few minutes researching this issue as it might prevent you from a whole lot of headaches. Thanks...

[MuskieJunkie]

Yamaha has probably the best reputation and highest resale for outboard motors. (I do not have a yamaha outboard)

Are the problems you're reading about in freshwater motors or is this just a saltwater issue?

You mentioned early 2000s and warranty, if you're talking about 10 year old motors then I would expect Yamaha is not going to fix anything under warranty.

[CaptainMusky]

I was wondering as well if this was saltwater reports. Can't say I heard that much around here.

[NAMASafetyDirector]

From what i have read the type of water and the lenght of time on the motor was irrelevant. The issues as I understand them were on 2002-04 F200-225's and the issue was a degradation or corrosion of the dry side exhaust runner/casting due to a poor casting or material. The newer models have a coating which prohibits the corrosion. Some of the reports were on motors that were maticulously maintained and flushed after every use and others were on engines that were strictly used in fresh water. If you do a search on those model year motors there is literally tons of info regarding the topic. Im am in no way trying to persuade anyone or bash Yamaha outboards as I have always felt they have been of the best quality myself I am merely trying to do my due diligence in reserching. I would hate to see or see anyone else get themselves into an additional $3000 bill to fix one of these things.

[marine_man]

I had not heard of this, but did similar research... to be honest, given the impact of this defect, I'd be inclined to shy away... the cost impact to fix it, depending on how long it goes sounds pretty steep!

marine_man