Posts: 906
Location: Warroad, Mn | I actually had a 1999 225 Optimax. Got it with my 205 Triton in the spring of 2000.
Ran it till the fall of 2001, when I traded for a 2002 Optimax. In general it was O.K., but at times alarms would go off for unknown reasons. It was a very strong engine and I could pull a 25" trophy four blade with three folks abroad and hit 60+ with a 205 Triton.
Here's some of my experiences with 225 Optimax. Keep in mind that I now have around 2,000 (smartgauge) hours on the ECU. This is a lots of hours, and it's all pretty much high speed running as I don't troll with my 225.
The 2002 engine had a compressor problem in around 2004, which was replaced under warranty (I had a five year warranty). The engine then failed completely in 2006 (interesting that it failed when the marine shop was testing it) and I had a new 2006 short block installed. In 2008 this short block also failed and I had the engine rebuilt, now out of warranty (rebored and new pistons and rings). Seems that the problem is with the reed values, as Mercury says they are good for around 200 hours (I put this on every year). It's usually cylinder six that goes first, must be something with engine temperatures.
I've also replaced the trim pump twice, the alternator, the compressor, the oil pump, spark plugs around six or seven times an will probably do that again this spring, the alternator belt (try and find one of these), a couple of lower units, the ECU, several props, the oil level sensor, the little solenoids that make the trim go up and down (several times, I now carry one in the boat), and I suppose a few more things that I can't remember.
Still all in all this is the best motor I've had. Never had to row back to camp. Every thing wears out if you use it. Mine is running good right now, but I fear that the reed valves are approaching their replace time.
I'd have a good Merc Mecanic check it out. Make sure it has all the up-grades that Merc suggests you have. If you don't put around 200 hours/year on the motor it'll probably be pretty good.
Doug Johnson |
