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Preacherboy.
Thinking about hanging a new 200 Optimax on the back of my 97 Pantera II. I know the Optimax weighs more than the old EFI. Anyone had any experience with this and is there any other problems I will run into? Will the weight difference be too much? Anyone have setup tips for this? Is this a bad idea?
The only bad idea that I see is putting the new motor on a boat thats 16 years old.
We think a rebuilt or newer engine is a good idea, it is not cost effective to upgrade. Your worst issue is the tongue weight as this extra 100 plus pounds will need more forward weight.
Have to disagree with ya Phil. I actually found this topic interesting, because thats my plan eventually. Nothing against buying a new boat, but with 3 going thru college… 40+ thousand is outta of the question at the moment. I actually talked to one of the parts salesman at BCB about this very topic and was told that restoring and upgrading was the more popular route these days. My 93 P2 looked pretty rough a couple of months ago, but its looking better all the time, and with me, theres a pride issue of me bringing something back to life, that once looked like it had seen its better days. Paying 5000. And putting another – lets say 5000. in it (less a motor) Im still 30,000. in the positive, and on the water. No doubt still envious of the Guys dropping the Néw ones in the water, but still dont have to hang my head… With a little work and time.Keep us posted 150 on your upgrades, Very interesting stuff.Jimmy
Guys just keep in mind that “poor folks, got poor ways”. You have to do what one can affort. Do all you can and be glad with the outcome.
I would keep the EFI. Had the 175 EFI been an option in 07 Id have it. There is a lot to be said for simple, proven, light, & affordable. I have not had any problems w/opti but would have preferred the EFI. You will not save enough in fuel/oil consumption to justify the expense of a new opti.
I am also seeing more and more re-power versus buying new. That is why I bought what I consider the best made bass boat. I have a 2008 Cougar FTD with dual signature power poles, HDS 10s, and set up just like I want. I wipe it down every time I go and its kept in the garage. I love my Pro XS and when it finally blows (hopefully will be a long time) I will probably just wait until Merc runs the 5 year warranty and buy a new motor. To replace what I have new it would be $60k+ then in two years its worth probably $40k. I just cant personally make that math work.
Thanks for the comments guys ,I can see both sides but it comes down to the mighty dollar. I love my cat and it is in excellent shape, if I end up selling it with a blown motor I wont get squat. I have not found a later model MERC that I feel good about , and am keeping all options open. I have found a 2005 200 HPDI Yamaha worth the price , not sure what kind of headache I would have switching from a MERC to a Yamaha , or if its even possible or worth it. i am posting because I want your opinions good or bad and realize that you are speaking from experience. Thanks for your help.
Been there, done that, this past year. I bought a used 1996 Eyra with a used 95 Mariner 175 EFI. The original engine on this was a Suzuki 150. The owner finally had to upgrade to a “new” used Mariner. When I bought the boat, I knew the boat and owner from when he fished in my old club. The Mariner was the “wildcard” in that he had bought it used but didnt get to run much before he passed away. So we never really knew its history.I have had the boat 5-6 yrs and last year, the lower unit went out at the 2012 OI. Pinion gear broke into pieces. Was quoted a price of $4k for an Merc brand lower unit plus install. After figuring a tight budget and would need to borrow money, my dilemma was…..do I take out a loan to get a lower unit, and risk something else breaking while Im making payment for repair number one? Keep in mind, I had already replaced voltage regulators, wiring harnesses, power trim pump, gasket seals, in addition to regular maintenance.Or do I repower with new, make payments and have the advantage of a 5 year warranty? Knowing my plans to keep the boat in the family(son), I chose to repower. Its not a choice for everyone, and I know I would not get the value of the engine if I decide to sell(hypothetically). But, I am not in a position to order new every year. I will say that the gas/oil consumption has been very impressive compared to EFI.96 Eyra/12 Mercury 175 Pro XS with 2015 single axle trailer2017 Victory Gunner
Let us know how the engine upgrade goes. I for one, see a 2 stroke engine in my future in days coming. So, learning from your experiences will make for some good learning before I get to that point. Right now though, the Fast Strike 150 will have to do… Till I get the rest of my 93 P-2 restored. Bass Cat Parts guys are getting to know me rather well these days.
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