225 optimax over voltage out put?

[prockvoan]

Coming in from offshore,my port motor(2001) 225 optimax alarm started beeping now and then.Temp was good,oil was good.Started looking.The only thing I saw was that the voltage gauage was reading close to 16 volts.Shut down both motors,killed the battery to that motor,crossed it over to the starboard motor and fired them off.Voltage was around 14 volts were the other was at 13 volts.To help keep the volts down,I turn on all lights and everything else.After that,no more alarms and voltage stayed at 14 all the way in on the port motor.
Whats up?Anyone have any ideas?Could it be that the battery went bad?Regulator on the motor?

 

[Silvertip]

Re: 225 optimax over voltage out put?

Check every battery cable connection and make sure they are shiny clean and tight. If you are using wing nuts on the battery posts, "wing" them into the briney deep and install stainless hex nuts and internal or external tooth star washers. Check both ends of each cable. Looking at them by the way, is not a good check. Disassemble them. A loose cable can allow the voltage to spike and may actually pop a regulator.

 

[prockvoan]

Re: 225 optimax over voltage out put?

Battery cables are clean and are good.One doesn't use wing nuts on optimaxes.They take a high CCA battery.So,thats not the problem.Thanks anyway.

 

[prockvoan]

Re: 225 optimax over voltage out put?

I guess nobody ever had this problem.

 

[jmburock]

Re: 225 optimax over voltage out put?

It sounds like you might need a new voltage regulator. As you know, voltage should be limited to about 13.5- 14.5 volts at wot. A faulty voltage regulator would allow it to go as high as 16+ volts. Fortunately the part is usually under $100 and is very easy to replace via bullet connectors.

 

[prockvoan]

Re: 225 optimax over voltage out put?

OK guys.The problem with the alternator is the regulator.After a full test per the shop manual,it calls for the regulator to be replaced.It was putting out 17.45 volts.Bad thing is,the alternator that is on a 1999 225hp optimax,there is no replacement regulator.I even got on the phone with Merc.They even stated to replace,but couldn't give me a part number.Now,after going to a few alternator shops,none of them could find a replacement regulator.Ain't that something.So a $30-$50 regulator is costing me $200 for a new alternator.And I just thought that the Fed gov does things like that!

 

[herb boughn]

Re: 225 optimax over voltage out put?

Chief....Welcome to the world of "Optimax". A Mercury term that means "We 're going to screw you now" and "probably later too". I got one that failed 15 minute factory test stand and it runs like crap. With 10 hours on it the local Merc mechanic suggested new spark plugs and Sea Foam. He should stick to lawn mowers. The best is yet to come...blow the compressor and it's a grand etc. I've asked Attorney General to investigate these guys.