1998 Mercury 125 2+2

[Downsizing]

Does anyone out there have anything negative to offer in regards to this motor?
I am aware of the fact that it runs on 2 cylinders until 1800 rpms and then the additional 2 are activated.
From what I am reading this irritates some owners. Any opinions will be appreciated.
I am thinking of buying one, was traded in, has been serviced by a dealer, impeller and prop replaced.
Thanks, Downsizing

 

[ondarvr]

They work OK, but as you said, some people are annoyed by at how it transitions into running on all 4 cylinders, others never notice it.

 

[flyingscott]

I had a 1996 125 merc I liked it very much. I used mine for skiing,tubing and trolling when I was fishing. I had a 1000 hrs on mine and was still running strong when I sold it.

 

[Downsizing]

Thank you both, appreciate the response.
Downsizing

 

[MercGuy]

I have the exact same engine, 1988 115 2+2. I bought mine new (as a package with my boat) and now have around 1,200 hours on it and it is still going strong. I have only done normal maintenance to it and it has never been back to the dealer since the day I drove it off the lot.

I don't mind the 2+2 feature, and I wouldn't hesitate to get another, but on the other hand I wouldn't specifically go looking for one. Generally the 2+2 has not been an issue for me, but on some occasions it is a little bit of a pain. I have a friend who has a much larger boat than mine and he seems to like cruising at the exact speed that my engine is transitioning between 2 and 4 cylinders (I accuse him of doing that on purpose ).

I have also pulled skiers and found that every once in a while I put the hammer down and it doesn't immediately light up all four, stumbles for a while, then takes off. The person on the end of the rope doesn't like that...

But, all things considered I'm very pleased with mine and hope it holds up for many more years. After all, have you seen the price a new outboard ?? Yikes !!!

Edit: Whoops, just noticed that you are talking about a 125. So it's not exactly the same, but pretty close.