1999 Merc 150 Opti?

[Shag]

A good friend, who is probably lurking here, is looking at a 19 ft Dauntless with a 150 Merc opti. Ths price is right. However, even though I bleed black I am apprehensive about this motor from what I read here. It has less than 100 hours with no problems so far. I told him to get a compression check as well as a "leak down"? test. Without starting a flame does anyone have any specifics on this year and hp motor? Mad Dog, I already know your answer.

[joed]

He can have my 1998 150optimax for parts. Blew the engine last fall with 220 hrs.Don't let him make the same mistake I made.

[Snapper Head]

Shag, as you know I had HUGE problems with my '01 and '02 model 200 Opti's. BUT, prior to buying I asked 4 different owners of the 2000 model 150's how they liked their engines, and whether they had any problems. All feedback from them was good.

By and large the 2000 models had few problems, the real nightmare began in 2001. Indeed he should get the unit checked out thoroughly, no matter what brand or year it is.

$.02

Big Al

[Shag]

Thanks, two very different answers. I understand that he has 1 year left on the warranty. I'll tell him to go ahead and buy it then run the hell out of it.

[dyeaple]

I am considering a purchase on a Mako 253 WA with twin 150 Opti's. Research shows Merc. had issues with 200+ HP opti's years 2000 & 2001. They actually had some recalls on those as well.

Joed: what was the cause for your issues?
Anyone else have further inputs on these?

How about the hull design and construction?

DYeap

[big-matt]

Had a 1999 18 dauntless with 150 opti. That motor ran perfect. Great fuel mileage & plenty of torque.Would pop that whaler on step in no time.
Be sure & have a qualified mechanic work on it.

Good luck

[whaler21]

I had a 150 optimax on a 18 ft Dauntless.No problems. I now have a model year 2000, 200hp Optimax on a larger Whaler going into third season with no problems.The fuel economy on both motors is really great.In my opinion engine noise is a little excessive.

[h8clntn]

have 2000 18 dauntless w/2001 150 opti. had problem with an engine overheat warning after idling through no-wake zones, then adding power. dealer did something to engine and have had no other issues. easy starts, nice idle, smooth power- just noisy in certain rpm ranges. 92 hours on engine now on original spark plugs. so far so good.

[foster]

From my experience, Optis are a "black curse."

If you run a search here, you will find various opinions most of which are founded on experiences with Optis. Some love em...some hate em.

Could be a good motor......could suck.

Good luck.

Foster

GW