I'm hear to tell ya deals on e-bay are not always deals. Bought a 2003 225 efi and when it arrived the troubles began. Installed on my 206 champion and took to my local marine to finsih the rigging and make sure all was working correctly.
So far so good. Took to the lake and new prop to large or motor didn't have enough power to put her on plane. Went and exchanged 25p for a 23p and on the way stopped to pick up some new plugs(in case they were fould) and was talking to the merc guy and suggest we hook it up to the computor and see what it said.
First, engine had 300 hrs more than what was advertised, 2nd motor was in gaurdian and 3rd, this is the best part the serial number on the lower part of the motor was not there and the sticker on the engine was for a 99 optimax 225 long shaft. Now heres the question. How can you determine what the engine truly is. The merc service guy says that he'll be able to let me know after its torn down???
Did I mention that the number 4 cylinder hung a piston ring....
If any of you know how to Identify the engine that would really help..
Kent
Currently the proud owner of a 475lb black anchor!!!!!