Yamaha Newb...Help needed

[M-D]

Guys,
I am looking to buy a new to me boat, Ranger 519VX / 198VX probably around the 2003 to 2007 years with a 200HP. I have always had Mercs but I am not opposed to buying a Yamaha however I know absolutely nothing about them.
I know I can call Mercury and ask about service and so on on a serial number, can I do the same with Yamaha?
I have read that to get the best performance out of the hull I want I should get a big block, did Yamaha make small and big blocks during that time frame? If so, how do I determine what a particular motor is?

Are there any particular years and or models that I should be wary of?

Basically any info you can help me with or point me to to educate myself would be greatly appreciated!!

[yam911]

You can call Yamaha and depending upon who answers the phone possibly get a history of the motor. If there were any warranty claims, YES claims or goodwill claims filed. When it comes to routine maintenance the motor should have a log of the maintenance performed on it. Probably won't however.

If I knew what model Yamaha motor you are talking about I possibly could provide you with some information about it.

[M-D]

Thanks for the reply yam911. You have a PM coming your way...