Help, changing from Evinrude to Mercury engine

[Ginn]

Can anyone help me with info regarding what I'll need to switch these two engines? I have a Stratos 273 with a 1998 225hp Evinrude and plan on changining it to a 2004 150hp Mercury Optimax. It presently has a hotfoot and I'd like to keep that for throttle but need to know "exactly" what I'll need to make the switch since the Mercury comes with no controls.

 

[gm280]

Well obviously Mercury controls for starters. And then you will have to work in the hotfoot via your ideas. But I honestly don't think Evinrude controls will interface with a Mercury engine. I could be wrong. But that would only be the second or third time today... The wiring connectors will certainly be different and therefore need changed (at least the actual connector plug at the engine if nothing else). And the throttle control cable and shifter cables will also need changed if they work reverse then the Evinrude. I'd say your best bet would be to buy the proper Mercury controls for your new to you engine... You also need to change the fuel connectors as well from the fuel tank at the engine side. JMHO!

 

[Ginn]

Will I need to switch the steering arms to use the existing steering cables as well?

 

[pckeen]

You may. Best check with a marina.

 

[achris]

You'll need a Mercury control box for the electrical side, but you can keep your hotfoot and just change the end fitting so it will hook up to the Merc throttle...