Merc 150 EFI Black Max - Repair Estimate

[imported_Jerry]

Had boat out this morning and continuous alarm went off. Motor died, but re-started and I could creep back to the boat ramp in idle speed only. At ramp, motor turned over real easy when out of the water. Soon as put in the water, would cut off. Water continued to stream out the back all along, so there was no stoppage of water. Any suggestions?
Just got back from the shop and they say the impeller went out, which caused the #5 cylinder to burn out. Given an estimate of $1500 to $2000 to repair (parts and labor) since they will have to take the whole engine apart. Does this sound right?
Also, did running it with the alarm sounding for a short distance cause the cylinder to burn out?

Thanks to all that have and are helping.

 

[KCLOST]

Re: Merc 150 EFI Black Max - Repair Estimate

Running while listening to the horn will make you morn!!!
If you lost water pressure like they say, yes!!! What do the other cylinders look like?

$1500 doesn't sound out of the norm, at least to me....

Let us know how it turns out...

 

[imported_Jerry]

Re: Merc 150 EFI Black Max - Repair Estimate

Thanks, will keep you all posted. Little nervous, as repair shop said it could be more if bolts break when repairing, but they don't expect them to since there is no sign of any corrosion and it has not been in salt water. Figure it is best to get this repaired, as the only other option was to replace the motor.....they gave me a quote of a little over $11,000 for a 140hp Suzuki installed.
Paid $4500 for the boat and trailer, so even with this unexpected repair, I think I got a decent deal for a Ranger Bass boat, trailer and motor.
Any suggestions to keep this baby running and in good shape once I get it back in a couple of weeks?
Thanks again to all for helping.

 

[studlymandingo]

Re: Merc 150 EFI Black Max - Repair Estimate

I replace the impeller EVERY season. As you are unfortunately experiencing, $40 is much cheaper than a rebuild. Whenever I buy a new (to-me) boat, it immediately gets a new impeller. I don't rely on the seller to tell me how good the one that is in there is. You did get a good deal on the motor/boat package. When it gets back from the shop, buy a manual. Follow the maintainence schedule, and you will have a motor that runs for a long time. The manual will show you in detail how to do the water pump rebuild, it is fairly simple, and highly recommended.

 

[imported_Jerry]

Re: Merc 150 EFI Black Max - Repair Estimate

Thanks for your response. They too recommend replacing the impeller every year along with a tune-up, which is what I will do from now on for sure. The boat is a lot of fun and I want to keep it running safe and sure for a long time and it seems like I found a good repair shop and mechanic. Going to take your advice and buy a manual.
Thanks again.