2000 3.3l Ram Ficht - buy or not to buy?

[daronk]

I posted in the Ranger forum because this engine is on a 205dvs that I'm looking at...responses were to stay away from it. I wanted to get some more opinions on the engine and why you would or wouldn't get it.

Was this engine part of BRP and built in the newer Wisconsin plant?

What are the main issues to be aware of with this outboard?

Did "Ficht" issues greatly diminish from 2000+

Details
Year I was told it's a 2000 (but model# decodes to a 2001, right?)
HP - I was told it's a 200 but the model# decodes to a 225
Hrs - claimed 100-120hrs. Not checked on engine.
Motor Model E225FHLSIF
Motor ID 04956717


thanks

[Darth VMAX]

The 3.3L "Ram" Fichts came out in 2001. Prior to that the 200/225 Fichts were 3.0L. These were all OMC motors. In 2002 BRP took over and did some re-tooling but they are still the same 3.3L block. The 2001 Rude Rams were the OMC 225HO and they were strong runners that live up to the "HO" reputation. As I recall the 3.3L 200 and 225's did not share the Ficht problems that the 2.6L 135/150/175's had.

[Danrude]

The 200/225hp Ficht Ram did not have the problems associated with the 150/175 Ficht. If you keep XD50 or XD100 oil in them Index the plugs properly run carbon guard or seafoam in the gas routinely and do a de-carb yearly they are very reliable.

[Won Hunglo]

Awesome engine. Makes more power then the current Etecs IMHO. Do the normal checks & if it all checks OK go for it. Wish I still had mine. It would run circles around my Etec HO...until the day it blew up.