150hp optimax alarm

[tleal]

I get an alarm if I run my 2001 optimax a little faster than trolling, or if I'm trolling and then decide to get my boat on plane. If I shut the motor off, restart and get boat on plane, its fine, or if I just run at trolling speed its fine. I took it in to the marina, and they said the computer (I can't remember the 3 letter name for it PCM?) was giving bad information, and sometimes no information at all. To replace the card/computer would be $1,500. That would just help them to determine to real problem. Any ideas?

 

[Don S]

Re: 150hp optimax alarm

There are Optimax motors from 75 to 225 can you narrow down what your 2001 is?
Also, what sounds is the alarm making. Continous, intermmittent, please describe.
A motor SN would be a big help.

 

[tleal]

Re: 150hp optimax alarm

Its a Mercury 150 hp optimax saltwater.
Its a solid alarm - I'm told thats temp.

 

[Paul DuLaney]

Re: 150hp optimax alarm

tleal, Do you have a Merc manual for the opti ? I had a 2000 115 ( same block as 150) on my Taho Q3 . As I have a 2004 150 efi on it sense 2004 ( thanks to Mercury)and still have the service,parts manuals plus the four guage warning system if your interested in them.As I have no need for them. If you want I can send a pic of them, just send me a e-mail and let me know.

 

[TD_Maker]

Re: 150hp optimax alarm

I had the same problem with my 150. I will bet you are getting an overheat alarm (and code) in one or more of the cylinder banks. I changed out my impeller, and that took care of the problem.

Have you actually looked at a merc. impeller? It is MUCH smaller than you would expect, so it is critical you change it out regularly. I have a friend who has a Honda 150 (Poor Guy) but his impeller is twice as large as my Merc's. He loves his Honda, but it is a real dog in performance. Sorry, I got off the topic a little.

 

[tleal]

Re: 150hp optimax alarm

I'm going to have them change the impeller. Thanks for the advice. They send my PCM card to Mercury to have the software reloaded since it was giving bad information. Hopefully that will do it. I often wish I had gotten the Honda, even though its heavy.