Merc 150 Optimax - Trash or Treasure???

[dscaccia]

I usually have had problems with Mercs - especially in saltwater, but I am buying a bay boat for saltwater and many people are using the Merc 150 2 stroke Optimax. I thought the 4 stroke was better?? Is it a good engine or am I going to be really sorry (again)???

 

[05GlastronSX]

Re: Merc 150 Optimax - Trash or Treasure???

what year is the optimax? the early optimaxs had problems (1998-1999 were the main culprits) but now, mercury has perfected its design and is now very, very reliable. I have a 2005 150 carburated engine and it has been great. Not nearly as technologically complicated, but the mercury v-6 2 strokes have always been known for great power and reliability. If the engine was properly maintained it should give you many years of good service. just make sure you perform all of the maintainence regularly especially since it is being used in saltwater.

 

[dscaccia]

Re: Merc 150 Optimax - Trash or Treasure???

It is a new 2006 Merc Optimax 150. It will be going on a 2006 Seafox 205 bay boat. My brother has a 2004 Seafox 205 bay boat with a 4 stroke Suzuki 200. I have fished with him many times since he purchased his boat, and I must admit that his motor is GREAT; sometimes I don't even know when it is idling! He has had no problems at all with his set-up and he thinks I am crazy to get a Merc 150 opti! I am afraid that if I get the Suzuki, I will have to wait for months to get parts if it should ever break down.

 

[studlymandingo]

Re: Merc 150 Optimax - Trash or Treasure???

The new Mercs are supposed to be state of the art. Do a Sea Trial.

 

[fishingdan]

Re: Merc 150 Optimax - Trash or Treasure???

The new optis are nice engines. Powerful (very good power to weight ratio) and fuel efficient, but a little louder at idle than a 4-stroke.