1999 Merc 125HP-Good Engine/or Bad?

[nightstalker]

A buddy of mine is looking at a rig (21' WAC) with a 125 Merc (1999). Is that the Optimax that I read was a very questionable engine? He said that he didn't see the word Optimax on the shroud. Is that a reliable engine, or one he should be wary of? <br />Stalker

 

[SingleShot]

Re: 1999 Merc 125HP-Good Engine/or Bad?

I believe it would be the 2+2 version and not an optimax. I have this engine but it is 2003.<br /><br />Then engine is 4 cyl 2 stroke which runs on the 2 bottom cylinders until about 1800 rpm then the upper 2 cylinders come online. This is carburated and not injected. The Oil is injected into the fuel line infront of the carburators "Loop Charged"<br /><br />I've been running my 125 for the last 3 years. I have nothing bad to say about it, starts right up, runs strong. I troll with mine quite abit and have no complaints. I think you will find many who have this engine happy users. I have not heard of any problems as with the earlier Opti's<br /><br />JK

 

[pursuit 3800]

Re: 1999 Merc 125HP-Good Engine/or Bad?

I have this same engine in a 2002 model. Personally I have put over 3500 cruising miles on it with no more than regular scheduled maintanance. It has never failed to start, run or bring me home. The only complaint I have is the 18 amp alternator. If you have a bunch of electronics then you will want 2 batteries just in case. Other than that its a great unit with decent fuel mileage.