2003 200 opti compression

[andym7]

Hi guys first time prospective boat/motor buyer here. I found a boat w a 2003 200 opti with 380hrs. Im gonna go look at is this weekend and since here in wisconsin everything is frozen no test drive is possible. I told the gentleman that i wanted to have the boat brought in and have a compression test at the minimum. He agreed. So what is a good number for this motor. Also what would be a bad number range. Anything else the that should be checked beside compression. Service history,ect. Any other comments on this motor also. Thank you in advance, Andy

[EuropeanAM]

Compression specs for that engine are: 90-110 psi (with preferably no more than 10% variance between highest and lowest cylinder... 15 psi variance at the MAX).

Compression readings should be taken:

-HOT engine (run up to operating temperature on flush attachment)
-Fully charged, properly rated battery
-ALL spark plugs removed.
-Lanyard switch OFF, spark plug wires on spark tester (or grounded)
-Throttle plate in the WOT position.

Good idea to take a look at the gear lubricant for signs of metal particles, water, etc. Spin the propshaft (in neutral) and look carefully at the "dimple" in the center/end of the shaft. It should NOT wobble when spinning the prop.

A careful visual inspection is also in order.... look for anything that doesn't look right. Make sure there are no fuel or oil leaks.... belt and tensioner are in good shape, etc.

Review it's maintenance history. If you can't determine what's been done, plan to do an annual maintenance, and water pump asap.

Finally, if possible, get it on the Computer Diagnostic System, and have the Run History, and the Freeze Frame (Fault) History printed out. I'd be glad to look at them for you, if you'd like.

Those are good engines... if it's in good condition (and properly maintained), it should give you years of good service.

[andym7]

Thanks for all the solid advise. The guy says he has always brought it in for service at J and M marine in Mosinee, Wi. Certified Merc dealer and service. Thats where he said we can take it to have it inspected. In 2008 he had to have the reeds replaced. He said it was because of ethanol in the fuel. He forgot or neglected to add marine stabile, whice he usually adds. He said its ran like a top before and after that though. Any thoughts on that????? How would you be able to check the engines history: serial # or VIN. Also do you know the max rpm on this model. Thanks again, Andy.

[ssimpala71]

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by andym7 &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote"> In 2008 he had to have the reeds replaced. He said it was because of ethanol in the fuel. He forgot or neglected to add marine stabile, whice he usually adds. He said its ran like a top before and after that though. Any thoughts on that????? How would you be able to check the engines history: serial # or VIN. Also do you know the max rpm on this model. Thanks again, Andy.</TD></TR></TABLE> Ethanol isnt going to affect the reeds to cause replacement! Id say he had 1 or more that had chipped/broken and had them replaced! I could see the fuel pumps being varnished up or siezed from ethanol fuel

[EuropeanAM]

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by andym7 &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">How would you be able to check the engines history: serial # or VIN. Also do you know the max rpm on this model. Thanks again, Andy.</TD></TR></TABLE>

Engine SERIAL NUMBER is the appropriate identifier.

Maximum recommended RPM is printed on the serial number tag, located on the starboard (right side) of the swivel plate.

[andym7]

Don thanks for all the help thus far. The previous boat i was interested in was sold just hours before i was going to go look at it. I am interested in a new one now and I was hoping you could answer some more questions. The motor is a 2000 225 opti. I even have a serial Number this time-0T164709. I was hoping you could tell me what you can see about this motor. Also what would be good compression numbers. Any other comments would be great. THANK YOU!!

[EuropeanAM]

Andy, you've got IM.

Probably going to see compression numbers in the 90-110 range, and prefer to see no more than 10% variance between the "highest and lowest cylinder".

When looking at compression numbers, it's often helpful to "split the numbers into their appropriate banks". For example: 1-3-5, 2-4-6. Although you want the overall numbers to be relatively even, you'll often notice that one bank is slightly stronger than the other (since they share the same cylinder head).