Looking for feedback about a 2000 Mercury 125EXLPTO

[Reid35]

Hello,
I'm trying to find some specs and info on a 2000 Mercury 125EXLPTO. From what I have found online so far, its supposed to be a saltwater model however there are no decals indicating this on the motor itself. Also interested in some opinions of anybody else who has experience with this model in regards to performance and reliability.
thanks

 

[Texasmark]

Re: Looking for feedback about a 2000 Mercury 125EXLPTO

If saltwater, usually OEMs indicate such on the cowling. That engine is 4 in line loop charged with 4 carbs, 1848 cc, oil injected ( oil tank mounted on engine under the cowl), thermostat and pressure controlled cooling, CD ignition, 2.07:1 lower unit gears, 16 amp alternator, 348 lbs. At low speeds it disables 2 cylinders and folks in the know say that when properly adjusted you can't tell when the other 2 kick in on acceleration. I think this was a measure to support people who trolled and didn't want a separate kicker engine. Or it could have been a fuel saving measure, but being loop charged, fuel is not an issue, at least isn't with my 90 3 cyl.

Most all Mercs are corrosion protected both inside and out and can be used in any kind of water. Obviously it helps to flush after use if used in salt water. Just makes good sense regardless.

On reliability, I have no idea but Merc has been building this engine since at least 1994 (I got my info out of a '94 sales brochure) and may still be. If not hasn't been too long since they dropped it and others, like mine, for some new technology...Optimax.

HTH,
Mark