I pulled the 1st ever Opti Max spark EVER! It was Fall of '97 I think. My employer enolled me in the 1st ever Opti max Merc school. It was in Afton, OK. It was a 2 day course (Non Certificate), for certified techs only. We fired it up in a test tank and set a cup of coffee on the flywheel cover. Everyone was blown away at how smooth and quiet a 2 stroke could idle. Then the 1st thing to learn was to pull the plugs. Class was about 10-12 students. I looked at my instructor , he looked at me and handed me a rachet wrench and said- "Glenn. You can be the 1st ever to pull an Opti spark plug at a Mercury service school". I picked cyl #4 'cuz that was the only spark plug wire I could find, lol. I love to tell this story.

Thanks Andy for providing honest information about engines. I always love your "the Good, the Bad, and Ugly segments" (I'm a big Clint Eastwood fan too). I just love my 2021 225HP Suzuki outboard that I swapped over two years ago from the original 175HP Evinrude Etec (although I never had a problem with it, lucky me). After watching your videos, I know that I made a wise decision. Have a Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah, and a healthy New year (and that includes all the fellow boaters on this site).

Andy your video intros are the BEST!!!

2017 Mercury Pro XS 225, love the motor

Hey thanks for the info. I used this video as well as many posts on boating forums to narrow down our search for a bigger (to us) Mercury outboard. Came from a little Evinrude 50 two stroke (that thing ran awesome still when we sold it). We just wanted a slightly bigger boat is all. All the info funneled down into one particular year and hp size Optimax that fit our smaller, used market budget, and that were apparently still very reliable. It then made sense why so few were available of that particular hp size and model year.

Thank you so much for this vid. Just bought my first boat earlier this year. 2001 Champ with 2001 Optimax 150. Learning so much from OP and from everyone here. Fucking thank you. Happy holidays

I found this channel a few years back. I like your honesty. My son and i bring our boats to Team Marine for work and never had a problem. Keep up the great work

I love my 04 3.0 200 opti it still runs great today but I have used the same certified Merc mechanic since day one and he has been great

Thanks for all the good info. I'm still running my 99 Optimax 200. Been a great motor about 700 hours now. Only issue I've had was oil pump leak in 2012. Still running great.

It's so great to have someone tell us the truth.👍

Weather is colder and boat’s yes boat’s put away I just had two beer’s! “light weight”. Just got home after work it ‘s Friday and I only want to talk about boats and fishing. And you guys got it going on! The beer is not talking! Love you guys! Buuurp Have a awesome Christmas and a happy new year. God bless. Keep killing ASsss

THOROUGHLY enjoy your videos and your dedication, Andy. I have spent hours and hours reviewing all things "bass boat" before purchasing my very first "bass boat" which I FINALLY did in August. Found a 2008 Triton 21X2 w/ Mercury 250 Pro XS Optimax (2007 model) that had 284 hours on the engine and I just couldn't pass it up. Beautiful boat!. Not a hint of a leak as the hull remains dry as a bone! First order of business was to physically watch and record cylinder compression (117 to 122 psi) at the dealership, installed NEW spark plugs, replaced the impeller. In addition, I ONLY use non-ethanal gas and so far...no hick-ups. Changed out the oil in the lower unit and I carefully inspect the propeller and drain the water from the engine after every outing. As a former military jet engine mechanic, well..."take care of your equipment and your equipment will take care of you". Although my Triton will peg 70mph, I very rarely EVER push it above 55 mph. I just DO NOT feel safe going any faster than that on the water even though the ride is absolutely SOLID! My dealership in East Texas has been rock solid with me. Of course, I do seem "smarter" than I really am in voicing concerns and following advice from my dealership and it's all thanks to you and your team, Andy! I REALLY love the sound of a big four-stroke but this Mercury engine is proving to be very dependable and the grin factor is just priceless!

Great video thanks

Have a merry Christmas!!! Another great video What got Mercury was their computer system got hacked big time in 2022 and 2023. Tore them up.

This video sealed the deal on my 98 nitro with a 98 150 optimax little cold blooded but after the start up runs great fast enough for me.

With more and more companies using consumers as their beta testers, videos like these are invaluable to both the manufacturers and consumers. keep up the good work! BTW, I have a 2012 150 Pro XS that runs great!

I have a 2002 Boston Whaler Conquest 295 with twin Mercury 225hp Optimax’s and ~2800 hours on them. The outboard had the EMM’s upgraded but that's it. I installed Yamaha fuel stainless steel fuel filter bases with Yamaha 10 micron filters, so this is setup with an upstream Yamaha filter and the Mercury under the cowl filter. Always run with Mercury Optimax DFI Oil. All scheduled maintenance provided by my marina including winterization. The Opti’s still run strong and fire up with just touching the key.

We sold quite a few optimax engines Andy,mostly 200's And 150's on Charger Bass Boats and Several on Starcraft Sfm deep v fishin rigs.in a good yearcwe did a lil over 200 Merc outboards a year,and a few yammies that were pre-rigged on various makes of boats we sold.Had a few compressor failures and then just what i would call general service work that guys would bring em in for.Kinda miss the old shop somedays,but its been close to 20yrs since the last opti rolled outta Olson Marine & cycle.Love the vids guys,keep em coming

Thanks for the info Andy. Earlier this year I bought a great condition 01 520vx with 800+ hours on an original Opti 225, it was priced right and just couldn't pass it up. Only thing done was a new compressor. I figured as nice of a shape that the boat is, if it blows ill re-power. Anyway, I've put about another 50 hrs on it and motor still cruises along with no issues. I'm pushing close to 900 hrs on this motor now.

I have 2006 (135) Opti Its on a 1978 Checkmate (Trimate) i use it for waterskiing.....when i 1st got it had 250 hours.....Now a little over 500,i had a starter go out.....and just did a transom replace....and going in the shop for a low oil alarm....senser i hope......With the recent replace of transom....seems when it rains it pours.....i have loved the motor..... has been always reliable......i thank you for the video....

I still run a 06 EFI runs absolutely perfect starts every time and it’s only had one issue oil tank sensor. Went into limp mode was a slow ride back to the boat ramp but didn’t have to be towed.

‘98 135 Opti with 460 hours on a ‘98 Ranger 681VS. Running mid 40s after I added a 4th battery and a kicker. First boat and I love that little thing!

I've had a couple of these and now have a 2004 Yama HPDI and the Yama is finicky by comparison. It's perhaps more refined but the high pressure fuel system is a bit of a pain. The Marc just always cranked and ran without a hitch. My HPDI has cost me almost 3K in 4 years for maintenance and upkeep. Going to sell my boat (89 Hydrasport Vector 22cc) in January/February to get either a 21' Flats (best option) or Bass Boat (Stratos Pro XL) simply because it's so much easier to drop in and take out of the water alone. Great vid and info as always Andy!

I have 2012 225 Opti now. Under 500 hours. Have replaced the oil pump and the lower end. Next is replace the oil tank on the engine as the float sensor seems to be bad and setting off the low oil alarm. Minor stuff though. Love my 2 stroke! Wish I had access to engine tuners for performance mods. Thank you for this video!

Just had our 2003 Optimax pop on Friday. A little over 1200 hours with Catholic maintenance. NEVER abused. Always fresh fuel with Merc fuel additives, fresh fuel, filter, yearly impeller and twice a year lower oil. Slowed down to meter stockpile and had to use more than normal effort to put it into neutral. Went into neutral and idle jumped up to 2500. Shut it down. Checked oil and tank full, lid tight. Started up and alarm went off, motor sounded rough. Actually tired of how loud it is. On a 21’ Champion CC. Don’t know if it’s terminal but we are ready to repower. Four stroke choice in California is really Merc and Yammy due to dealer network. Suggestions? Your channel is so informative I cannot believe YT doesn’t give you diamond status or something. Keep up the honest and helpful work!!!

I have a 2003 Optimax 200. It is 700 hours and still runs great. Only had a few minor engine problems

We have east Tennessee fishing expo would be a good show for you!! Love your videos!! Keep up the great work!!

My dad has a 07 175ProXS that is still running strong. Great engine, he had a compressor hose go about 40hrs in, but all fixed under warranty. He's had some power packs changed under warranty but never failed him on the water. One of the best Merc's I believe they've built! I think he's got about 590hrs on it and running strong!

I have a 2014 Mer. OPT 225 Pro XS on a Ranger Z119 I have over 400 hrs on it it will run 72 + still, I like Yamaha but its been good so far / your vids are great and thanks for the Info 👍

Have an 08 on a triton I bought back in 16. Its still running strong getting close to 500hr. Haven't done much except change plugs and a yearly service

Got an 04 Opti on a Triton Tr-196. 700+ hours. Replaced a compressor but that's it other than standard maintenance. Love the motor better than the boat for sure.

Came in at a volume of 11 as always but really toned it done as you went there!

Ok Opti owners Check your water sensor in the VST. The epoxy dried up on mine and. Gas’s blew the wires out. Luckily it didn’t catch on fire

Just bought a hydrostream Vegas with a 250xs. Owner before me blew a compressor but didn’t check the air and fuel injectors so it was running rich and rough when I test drove it. Growing up in the bass world I know how good this platform is so I bought it and rolled the dice on how much it was gonna cost to fix it. Had to replace 5/6 air injectors but once fixed it runs like the opti we all know and love Couldn’t be happier with the setup and runs like a dream. Takeaway here is if you blow a compressor have your mechanic check EVERYTHING! With DFI 2 strokes if you take care of them they will take care of you simple as that 🤝

I have a 2008 optimax 200 hp Had the compressor go out luckily under warranty other than that the high-pressured airline blew off a few times that's been it still running strong now

I bought a new 250 pro xs in 2015. I have 602 hr on it with no major problems. I plan on running it for years.

I bought a used 2013 200hp opti proxs for my 1995 gambler 209. 400 hours. Coming from a 200 Johnson Venom, I was surprised by how quiet it ran. Oil level sensor went out, but otherwise, it has been a solid powerhouse.

I have a 99 Opti still running my 99Ranger 518svx. It's been a great motor. I have replaced some of the fuel system components, other than that it's been solid

Hey i love your content and me and my brother and father always watch it and tbink your hilarious!

I've got a 05 opti can't wait to see what you say

I came out of 2000 200 EFI and ran it till it blew up with 1300 hours on . I now run 04 200 Optimax original powerhead with 130 hours of it and I love it .

My first 175 Opti that I bought in 2002 I had for 16 yrs & only had 550 hrs. Traded in when compressor & other ??? was going out. Bought the last 2018 175 Opti Millers in Ocala, FL had. That engine also ran flawless for 165 hrs then boat tackle everything was destroyed in fire. Now have same boat hull Ranger 185 2003 with 2002 Yamaha 150 ox66 that drinks the gas compared to the Opti. Yamaha only has 224 hrs & runs great.

Bought a 2003 ranger with a 2003 225 opti with 163 hours In 2020. Blew the 6th cylinder in 10minutes because it hasn't ran in probably a decade after changing fuel oil and doing a flush etc. Water jacket was full of crude which resulted in the 6th cylinder to fail. Got it rebuilt, re sleeved, rings, cylinder and pumping extra oil. And has been running great ever since I sold it to the new owner.

I really like your Opti commentary. Its Honest and fair. I have a new to me 2021 -2001 Opti DFI 2.5 (500 hour). Its running fine now. I have swapped out most of the serviceable. I'm really convinced many DIY pros did not know the proper servicing and this lead to many issues. I kept a perfect running Evinrude 70 VRO with running pump for 32 years!! So I'm not afraid to do proper servicing. It sounds like I have a 'newer' (Not Black) '01 Air Compressor ( I spoke with Merc CSR. But I am still very cautious and constantly listening for any sounds.) The rep said the issues weren't really in my Serial range 0T273xxx. I'm running Prem Plus oil and QuicKleen Summer use and Quick Stor winter. ( I also drop a bit of seafoam marine in the tank too?) 92 Gal Tank. What is involved in the AComp service? How much labour to expect? Would you possible be able to do a vid of this? I also want to replace all 3 Filters in the oil lines.( Needs to bleed oil line.) I think a new tracker valve is due also( What is the Tool part number?).I have also read up on the 'strainer' but not sure how to safely remove it? Maybe a short vid? When should the reeds be inspected? So many have posted about Chris Carson reeds? COMPLETED: New Fuel lines/New Filter/Cleaned the (Pretty clean) Filter in the VST( No build up or debris)/New Diaphragm Kit/Spark Plugs-Iridium/New Plug Wires/ My coils are fine/ New Thermostats/Air Filter(old was gross). Lower end gear oil was clean but changed. Running around 5400 WOT? Compression is all around 105 on all but #6 100.

My dream boat 20-25 years ago was a Ranger 519 or 520 with a 225 Optimax and I'd still buy one if I were still big into ditch pickles (aka Largemouth Bass). After reading up on it, I'd also go Mercury EFI or Yamaha OX66.

I got a used 2005 triton with a 05/225 opti and I have had the engine for 4 years now and I haven’t had not a single problem and I’m up to 800 hours I can’t speak for the previous owner but it’s a 18 year old motor and it’s a beast

My 2001 194 ChampioN has a 225 opti. I have put 30 hours on it since I bought it. It still has less than 100 hours. I am keeping my fingers crossed! I really like it power and economy is great.

2005 Optimax, new compressor June 23 and May 24 popped cylinder #2 with 351 hours. Sold it and purchased new for my 2005 Champ 198 Elite. I babied this engine and serviced by Merc mechanics.

Another great episode. You guys should come up to Canada in January for the Toronto international boat show. It’s a massive show.

Just bought a 97 Champion 191 with 2016 200 Opti. Best riding boat I've ever owned. Only issue I have is the bow rise is high! I'm sure it's due to the heavier motor. Not sure if there's anything I can do to get the bow down when idling around, but other than that it's been great. Engine is strong and easy on fuel.

I have a 07 250 opti. The only problems I have had was a coil wouldn’t plain out. Witch was intermittent work then quit finally tested it while not working. Other problem I have had was an air injector which failed and cost about 700.00 for one new one. 280hrs but still love the motor. I would recommend to anyone to purchase the smartcraft tells you everything you need to fix it instead of throwing parts at it.

Would love to see a build on the new skeeter zxr 19 awesome videos tho man happy holidays

Other than the compressors, I have had good luck with the Pro XS 2 strokes

135HP 2006 here, 500h running strong. Every other gas tank QuickLeen additive, yearly maintenance belt, thermostats, filters… You should tell us all how to catch a bad compressor before it kills the engine. Thanks!

First off love the show it is awesome great jod. I have 1998 optimax 150 on a old but new procraft vevy fell taken care of. The low oil high heat alarm went off. Has oil and was peeing good shut it off resart did it again put it on the trailer. Have had put new oil pump on 2 years ago and service it every spring . In Virginia. If any body has any solutions before I have to take it in that would be nice . Thanks for sharing all you do with us. Late.

I had a 2001 135 opti great motor. Oil tank sensor was my only issue. On a Lund Mr Pike 17 fun setup 50mph. Then a 2008 150 on a Ranger Reata again oil tank sensor, linkable fuse, but biggest issue was how the alternator mounts. The bolts screws into the block until it strips out. Good luck then. Both motors i thought were great on fuel unless wide open or pulling kids on tube. Now i have a 2022 300 verado. Funny thing was when i had the opti's everyone said get a 4stroke so much quieter, now making the pro xs so they sound like a opti again. Can always tell an opti going across the lake just by the sound.

I have a 2010 opti max pro xs I can’t complain with mine other then I’m good at tearing up gear cases!

Have a 98 merc 200 EFI, still going strong at 660 hours. Other than changing power packs every 4-5 years she gets it done. Doesn’t really like the cold but other than that all gas no brakes!

Had an 05 opti 115 still running today only general maintenance great engine

I saved up for a bass boat about 4 years ago. Bought a 1998 champion 203 with a 98 optimax 225. The motor has been....ok.... tracker valve issues haunt me along with the other 2 diapghrams in the rail. Replaced them and it runs ok but nothing great. My champ loaded with a 4 blade trophy hits 67 or 68 depending on weather. My CONSTANT issue is the factory lower unit keeps pushing the seal carrier up under the water pump and leaking fluid. I have been through 4 seal carriers in the last 2 years. Had 2 shops replace them but same thing happen. Done it myself same thing. Other than that motor boat is great. Now i gotta save up to replace the champs carpet. Love my champ

Outdoor expo in the Quad Cities Illinois! Would be great to have you guys there some day. Rock Island IL to be exact

2007 pro xs i put 900 hrs on it never had any problems except the coils would go bad off and on i loved mine i ran wal mart oil in it for the 10yrs i owned my boat.

I have a 2013 200 proxs bought it brand new and now I have 2200 hrs on it and it’s still running good I hope I didn’t jinx my self lol.. anyways issues that I have with it since I had it. Oil pump went out (fixed), spark’s plug went bad (fixed), alternator went bad (fixed), reeds went bad (fixed), lower unit went out 2x so I decided to get torque master never had a problem it ever since (fixed) last but not the least and this was last yr, coil went out got it fixed. Not bad for a 10yr old motor still pushing strong. Merc all day baby.

2008 200hp Optimax - replaced compressor at 150 hours or so but no others issues

I've had a couple of optis but my favorite was my 250xs. I was fortunate to catch the compressor starting to fail before it let loose, but it was a super easy diy fix 🤘 MAINTINACE seems to be a 4 letter word for most boat owners, but with regular maintenance that engine was a beast. I guide full time and run my motors constantly and my optis were great! Ended up repowering with a 250 v8 pro xs, but would run another opti in a heartbeat. Love the vids guys!!

Ive got twin 2006 175 optis. Almost 2000 hrs. Check your alternator mounts. They will wear out and snap the belt tensioner bolt. Also run quickleen ever tank. That being said Im upgrading to twin Suzuki 200ap.

Main problems I experienced with my 2000 225 HP Optimax were due to ethanol degradation in the fuel system. I can also say that injector prices are outrageous. If you need air injectors, they're running around $750 each times six. The fuel injectors are priced a little less if you can find them, but it'll get to the point where it's almost better to trade it in for a new one.

Just bought a 2008 Superfisherman 180 with a 2007 Opti 175, 115 hours! Took it in for a service and she runs like a top! Question.. the nature of a 2 stroke likes to run WOT... does the Opti like WOT? I am new to this motor and need her to last. Some runs are 30 minutes and I like to get there as fast as the boat can go. Not worried about fuel consumption. SO... WOT all the time or 4000ish RPM cruise? Love your videos!

another great video. lets talk about the badass 95 johnson fast strike 150 that on my 181 champion , thanks

90 opti in my 2nd boat. Troll it low for walleye and take it offshore into lake Huron. Been good to me so far knock on wood 3 years running it

Hello, nice report on the engine line. I have a midsize on my waterfowl hunting rig and the big complaint is cold startups, and I mean cold. Last usage was a week ago and it was under 20 degrees at the launch. We are in way upstate NY and hunt in ice conditions constantly during late season, and I do realize the design engineers probably were not too concerned with such a small market usage for their engines. For the first start of the day, I have to pray to the outboard motor gods, carefully utilize the priming ball, go easy and hard on the choke, pat the Labs head 3 times and put up with the advice of everyone waiting for it to light. When she does it sounds like someone kicking a coffee can of nuts and bolts down a flight of stairs, and then it gets worse! As she warms and gets happy, things start to settle down and I can actually get it to idle. We all thank the outboard, and duck hunting gods, and away we go. Every start after that if fires immediately and quickly goes to an even idle, no matter how long it sets or how cold. I also store it in a garage in between hunts to help it out, who knows what would happen if it was stored outside. Ah, the joys of 2 stroke outboards in cold weather. Keep up the good work!

Would like to see y’all at the Bassmaster Classic this year in Oklahoma.

I had a 2001 200 opti on an Aries that was trash. The 1997 150 xr6 i replaced was night and day better. Shouldn't have pulled that trigger. I also had a 2005 200 on a stratos that was a beast. Best motor I have had (though my 97 115 intruder i bought in 2019 still was a rock solid rocket).

Had a 2002 on a triton , threw a rod around 800 hours in 2014 , installed new power head sold the boat last year still running on kentucky lake

I would love to see a battle of the DFI’s I think that would’ve be great to see Andy’s input.

Have had my 2014 150 Pro XS since new. Outside of a few minor issues, what I prefer to call general maintenance repairs of wearable items, it's been rock solid. I've only had an issue with the tracker valve and poppet valve going bad. It runs great, almost 500 hours on it, do my yearly maintenance religiously. The only other thing that's wrong with it is the oil pump, or spider pump, is leaking a little. It's a PITA to get to, so I just haven't dealt with it yet. Honestly think it's just the lines need new clamps as I think they come with zip ties from the factory. Moral is, do your maintenance, let it idle for 45-60 seconds after a hard run and always use Quikleen and Quikstor in every tank of fuel.

Hi I am from Australia Sydney love your talks just want to know was the mercury 2002 140hp saltwater series model a good motor?

I got a 2014 pro xs 115 and runs like a champ still. Got around 200 hours on it. Runs my 2014 bass tracker at 50 mph all loaded down.

Love your videos I need some help since you are the champion expert what is the correct pad to prop shaft clearance on a 2003 206 ?

I just traded off a boat with a 2017 opti Pro xs 150HP due to it constantly being in the shop. First was the threads came out of the block on the one bolt that holds the tensioner to the belt. First a helicoil which lasted about 4 hrs and then Merc replaced the powerhead and still had issues with bolts coming loose due to threads coming out. Hated that motor.

Had 2, first was an 01 225 non pro XS on a Ranger 520...boom! She went away at 200 and some hours...second was the replacement for that a 2011 225 Pro XS.... absolute beast. Things to watch; compressor, get your injectors(BOTH SETS AIR AND FUEL), rails, FUEL SYSTEM CLEANED REGULARLY BY A GOOD MECHANIC. get flow rates and patterns from them, all new seals. Let them warm up in the winter/early spring. Purchase smart craft gauge or something. Run non eth, regular change out of low permeation fuel lines...and the oil pump is gonna leak, gotta do a prime sequence if you replace it....also heard running a 150:1 mix in the tank helps lube injectors

Have a 2005 opti. Never an issue.

Seen a couple 250 pro xs Opti suck up belt dust through the compressor. They did not use air filters in some and needed to clean lines, rails, and injectors.

I've never had any issues with my 250 pro xs but I use mine every weekend 2 to 3 days here in Alabama. I don't think these engines like sitting. Keep fresh gas going through them along with the dfi oil and don't run them wide ass open all the time. Also biggest thing is to let the engine warm up before you hammer. They're good for about 1000 hrs

I run a couple of 2004 225 Optimax with 400 hours on each, the port engine lost its compressor last season. Up until then I have no complaints. I plan on replacing the compressor in both engines. I was told that it is common for the compressor to fail at about 400 hours on the 2004’s.

Easy to service and work on. Plugs and filters every year. Easy to order and replace parts so you don't have to bring it into the shop in July.

You should do a video on the 75, 90 3 cyl and 115 and 125 4 cyl Mercury elpto two strokes from the early 2000s

Had a 2001(?) 225 Optimax, ran good but constant stalling/idling issues. Eventually sold the boat because if it popped I couldn’t afford to fix.

I love my 200 optis

Hi, is there a stainless prop for the Suzuki 40 that doesn't chatter? Looking for it for a year. Thanks, love what you're doing! Merry Christmas!

Do a video on marvel mystery oil for outboard motors

Love Mercs 4 strokes, but I really miss the 2 stroke sound

I would love a good bad and ugly for the Mercury 2.5l.

I got a 2006 300sx on a gambler 2200 it’s a damn rocket but I’ve been having issues with the RPMs surging between 3000-4500ish. Seems almost like a misfire. But when I’m giving it to her and letting her eat it runs great. That midrange is giving me an issue.

I had a 2003 225 Opti on a Boston Whaler 210 Ventura. When I bought the boat it had sat for 11 years without running. The motor fired up and ran even after all of that neglect. I ran that motor offshore for three years with only routine maintenance and a few new parts (alternator, starter, thermostats) which were all expected to fail on the 20 year old motor. The motor had a "miss" that I couldn't get rid of despite trying all of the normal things (Reeds were intact, tracker valve fine, injectors fine, spark boxes fine). Despite the miss it would not die. Finally sold it for 2k and bought a used Suzuki 250. I wouldn't be afraid to buy another and run it. But I wouldn't pay more than a couple thousand for one.

Had a 1998 150 Opti on a bay boat here in Tx. Ran that thing everywhere. I think it made gas. The bad, 1 compressor, and the TPS sensors sucked.

2004 200 hp optimax exhaust plate corroded exhaust leak motor wont idle take cowling off runs fine 15:07

Did you ever do a video on how reliable the carb Yamaha 2 stroke are

Andy, looks like you were having a serious conversation out by the dumpster on Google Earth street view. Lol. I got a 1997 Merc EFI 175 on an old Ranger. I bought the boat because of what you said about the late 90's Merc EFIs. Also, cant find much on the older Tritons on your channel. Good boats or no? I found a 1999, 1 owner, 20 foot Triton TR20 with a Merc EFI 200 and it supposedly has less than 100 hours on it. Any advice on a motor that fresh but 25 years old? I pick it up next week.

I would love to see a "good, bad, ugly " on the mercury verado. I have a 2011 250 verado pro on my bass boat and I get bad and good comments. Would love to hear your take on them.