Mercury Optimax

[thumpum]

I am looking at purchasing a used boat this spring and was wondering if anybody could give me some feedback on the Mercury Optimax 200-225 from around the years 2000-2003. I had heard from a few people that they were having some problems with these motors. Any info would be greatly appreciated.

[hitthebricks]

a buddy and I each have 2001 200's with Smartcraft package and another buddy has a 1999 200. Knock on wood, they all have ran great with no problems. Another buddy has a 2002 200 and has blown it twice now. I guess its kind of a dump shoot.

[fishlakeman]

thumpum,

I was looking at this same motor on a boat i was looking to purchase, i asked this same question about 3 weeks ago on this same forum. just look back a few pages. In my opinion i would not get near this motor. Any 2000-2003 Optimax 200- 225 hp is asking for trouble. there were lawsuits and everything. Something about their plant in mexico changing the specs on the engine without the company knowing. I did a lot of research on those motors and havent found too many good things about them, your only asking for trouble by purchasing this motor.