150 HP Optimax on 20xd

[Jimbo20xd]

Anyone running a Bullet 20xd with a 150 hp Optimax? If so, how does it perform? Wanting to upgrade from Johnson 175 Fast Strike on my 94 model 20xd. Bullet says transom of pre-1996 models is not designed to handle heavy motor weights. The 150 and 175 Optis are about 45 pounds heavier than the Fast Strike. This additional weight is near the upper design limit for the transom. I don't need to go super fast but don't want to lose significant performance over my current setup. I guess I'm more concerned about effects of the additional motor weight on performance than any speed lost by reducing the hp to 150. I'm told the 150 hp should push the boat in 60 mph range and I'm OK with that.

[alli ss]

They mean stay with a 2stroke and 2.5litre. That boat was made before the 3.0litres were big. Youll have no issues and could go with a good used 225 2.5litre if you wanted.

[rock2033]

2.5L 260!

[BigStan]

I have a 2017 175 Pro XS on my 1996 20XD and love it.

[ironoutlaw]

Is it possible to brace up the transom on older hulls to accept a 3 litre or is it too much work to be worth it?

[alli ss]

Too much work. Its not just the transom.
btw- plenty of people run big motors on the older boats.

[MIKER2702]

Too much work. Its not just the transom.
btw- plenty of people run big motors on the older boats.

have a 21xd in family 1994 model getting transom work now. just had a new 250 pro xs installed
about 18 months ago. just did not hold up.
I have a 1998 20xd with 3.0 liter 225. with near 85 hours engine boat combo on it no problems or stress cracks at this time.
there are some people in Knoxville area could strengthen the transom but cost is high. I would keep away
from 3 liter engines if possible. why did merc discontinue some of the small displacement engines 200 hp amazes me.

[Rex1]

Find a good used 2.5 in a 200, 225 ,245 260 or a 280 and go have some fun. Ran my 98 20' with a 260 up to 96 mph, just do not get
out of the gas quickly. You will wash the letters off the sides of the boat if you do.

[MIKER2702]

have a 21xd in family 1994 model getting transom work now. just had a new 250 pro xs installed
about 18 months ago. just did not hold up.
I have a 1998 20xd with 3.0 liter 225. with near 85 hours engine boat combo on it no problems or stress cracks at this time.
there are some people in Knoxville area could strengthen the transom but cost is high. I would keep away
from 3 liter engines if possible. why did merc discontinue some of the small displacement engines 200 hp amazes me.

4800 for transom repairs in my area for boat
Mentioned above. Insurance covered 3800.00 this includes much bracing upgrades