merc opti 115

[Maxum21]

hey guys, i'm supposed to be going tomorrow to check out a 97 bayliner 17.5' with a 2005 merc 115 optimax"saltwater". I've never owned or ran a fuel injected outboard before. is there anything specific to look for? owner says he purchased motor new and runs great but tilt isnt working. i plan on doing a compression test/run on muffs. anything else? i would like to drop it in the water & test ride it but i dont know if thats possible w/ the tilt motor not working? worse case scenerio how much $ to replace trim motor?
also, would this motor adequately power this 1800lb boat with 4-5 people aboard?
appreciate any last minute advice!

 

[Philster]

Re: merc opti 115

Yes, she will be nice power on that boat.

Fuel injection just makes life easier for starting and idling and performance, and w/out being fully warmed up, you can pull away from the dock/ramp and not stall it. A 2-stroke, fuel-injected motor, like the Opti, will have the quickest throttle response you will ever feel. The Optis from that year are pretty rock solid.

Check for stuff you would check for on any engine.

 

[Maxum21]

Re: merc opti 115

ok thanks.. do you know what could cause the trim/tilt motor to fail prematurely? i cant seem to find any replacement pumps online..i'm hoping it wouldnt be a $1500 repair. that could def be a deal breaker