2001 200 HP Optimax

[CPL]

All,

Looking at a 1900 Pro-V with a 2001 200 HP Optimax. Will be getting the compression checked, but is there anything else I should look for? I've heard that this era of Opti (big block, 2001-2003) are oftentimes called "OptiPops" or "OptiBombs" because of problems that some experienced. Is there a widespread problem, or is this just a case of the few with problems making lots of noise?

thanks for any advice and guidance.

Dan

[BoxMN]

I am a huge Merc fan, will only get black motors. BUT... I would not get a 2000-2002 big Opti even if God himself was selling to me. I think 2003 was okay, but even then, I would go up to 2004 and be happy. Stay away if it were me, if for nothing else other than the perceived stigma of that era. The 150's of that age were fine. The 200-225, nope. Good luck.

[smalliehunter]

I have an 02 200opti and it blew at 645hrs. I also have the smart craft read out. I think my problem could have been avoided. I did get a few low oil alarms but since it was full of oil I wrote it off.. Almost 9 thousand for a new power head and all the fixings.. But I do really like my motor it's very strong and fast.