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Need opinions on a good used late modle OB on a 222
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Need opinions on a good used late modle OB on a 222
I have a 1988 Aquasport CCP 222 that is currently powered by a 1999 Merc 200 EFI. Not enough power out of the hole and the cruise speed is only about 30-35 knts top speed is about 40 knts. I'm looking for a good used later model OB 225-250hp. Not having 15k for a new model, I'm looking in the slightly used market place for something in the 8k range that I can pay cash for that would be a good reliable motor for the next four or five seasons. I'm not terribly familiar with the current crop of OB's as the last two boats have been inboards with 302 fords and 350 GM's. My first boat (many moons ago) had a Johnson 115 Javlin(sp) and it was a good motor. I'm thinking 4 stroke but 2 Stoke is good, I have found a 2003 Merc 225 4S for 8k (w/100hrs and I can use my current prop), but there are a few e-tecs starting to hit the used market. I've read here that the Yamaha HPDI motors may or may not be a good choice in a 2S motor? What about the Opti's? Any to stay away from? Suzuki looks good as well though hard to find in used and not used-up. I would like to get one before February and the used prices start to rise with spring aroud the corner so no big hurry. I guess this is a continuation of the bullet-proof thread for motors 225 and over. Need or would like the advise of you guys.
Re: Need opinions on a good used late modle OB on a 222
I guess I was curious if any one here had any experience with the Merc 4 stokes (non-verado)? Who made them for merc? That Johnson 225 4stroke at ed's is looking real good for a couple of K more with a 3 year warranty. I've seen several CCP 222's with twins so I don't think the weight of one 4S will be a problem. The merc for 8K is priced right with low hours if it's a relialble motor design.
__________________ Beware the lollipop of mediocrity, lick it once and you will suck forever!
222 CCP/99 Merc 200EFI
Re: Need opinions on a good used late modle OB on a 222
I had a '76 222 and it just doesen't get out of the hole any faster. 200 carb Merc. They were only rated for 230HP in those years. If that helps.
Sweet boat.
Re: Need opinions on a good used late modle OB on a 222
I'd be shopping for a nice clean 250 Yam OX-66 to bolt on that boat.. I think I saw one for $4500 in the classifieds here. My (also very heavy) 22 Grady became a much more responsive boat than it was when it had a 200 or the 225 2.6 on it. A whole different boat, and I didn't see a increase in fuel burn. You may also consider a used 250 efi Merc since you have the controls/gauges etc.
Re: Need opinions on a good used late modle OB on a 222
Not sure about 8K but I know where a new in the box '03 DI Rude 225 is with the 7 yr warrenty, should be a decent price. Good motors and very strong, email if interested and I will get you the owners number.
Re: Need opinions on a good used late modle OB on a 222
I understand that Mercury dealers are selling the 225 HP 4-stroke at a discount since they now have the Verado in that horsepower range, and they will no longer carry this model. These were about $10,500 at the Fort Lauderdale show last week. Remember that although these are Yamaha engines painted in black they are rigged for Mercury controls. It may not be the most powerful 225 around, but for sure is the most reliable. Even if in the future you have difficulty getting parts from Mercury, you can always get them from Yamaha, as this is a bread and butter model for them.
Also remember that your boat is rigged for a Mercury, so if you change brands, expect to pay a hefty fee for the rigging. Therefore, even if this is somewhat over your budget, it is a great for someone that plans to keep its boat 4 or 5 years.
Also, with this engine, resale value should be better than with a 2 stroke.
Borrow the difference, don't make a wrong decision now as it may spoil your plans of keeping the boat long-term.
Re: Need opinions on a good used late modle OB on a 222
WOT is about 5500 rpm, I'm runnning a Vengence 14x19 - WOT she runs 46mph. Mid summer I sold my 74' 28' Luhrs sportfisher with twin 302 fords because gas was killing me. So really 46mph is flying low compared to what I'm used to. I guess my quest to upgrade is an attempt to get a cruise speed speed of about 40mph in good conditions and keep the running gear upto date. Seawolf2 metioned several points that were my reason for leaning towards the Merc 4 Stoke. The 200 EFI seems to be a good motor with the exception of the oiling system which I removed because I believe the crank gear was givving up. Premixing is no big deal except when trolling or idling along it runs a bit rich. The 200 is a bit slow to plane but not to bad, the tabs help. I really appreciate all the good info you guys are giving, more wrinkles in the grey matter.
__________________ Beware the lollipop of mediocrity, lick it once and you will suck forever!
222 CCP/99 Merc 200EFI
Re: Need opinions on a good used late modle OB on a 222
You could get mine in the trading dock, rebuild it over the winter, and have a nice Zuki 225 2 stroke for less than 3500 cash. $900 walks mine away, parts to rebuild would cost about $1500, gauges and binnacle another 900. Let's talk shipping down to Ole Miss.