2003 Merc 4stk 50 hp efi big problem

Joined
Jul 28, 2002
Messages
1
Brand new merc 50hp 4stk efi 2003 model, first time out, with less than 5 hrs on motor, it stutters and alarm goes on. Engine was "pissing" fine so probably oil warning. Scramble to start kicker to get out of way of boat several times the size of my house. Limped home 15miles on my 15hp kicker, took over 4 hours. When close to dock on flat water restart 50, starts right up but power output way down. No alarm in few minutes run. Very serious engine problem likely.<br /><br />So now we will see how good dealer/merc service after sale is, as I want new motor or money back. Will post result of dealer meeting tomorrow. For 300 bux more could of had a Honda 50hp. <br /><br />Anybody else had similar probs with mid range merc 4 strokes or did I just get big lemon????????<br /><br />Maybe I'm too negative but I will be surprised if this is resolved this boating season and without the use of lawyers.<br /><br />really steamed in chesapeake..........
 

orca

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Jul 12, 2002
Messages
422
Re: 2003 Merc 4stk 50 hp efi big problem

G'Day. Sorry to here about your problems, Unfortunatly in this age of modern technology anything can fail. It might be a VCR, computer or even an outboard motor. Chances are that it was a simple problem like a faulty seal that has caused a major problem, for you. I have found over the years that a customer that storms into the repair shop and threatening to take legal action will usually be sent to the back of the line for repairs. If you return to the mechanic, explain your problem and discuss the issue like sensible adults, chances are that the problem will be fixed in a short time and everyone will be happy. after all, Mercury do give a warrenty, If the repair shop do not help then contact Mercury direct.
 

iRich

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Jul 7, 2002
Messages
219
Re: 2003 Merc 4stk 50 hp efi big problem

Hey Chesapeake, If you're in the shipping channel that close to a ship you're in the wrong place anyhow. Next time keep going with the merc...better to burn it up than sinking your whole boat. i'm sure they will fix it for you though, probably something simple. Maybe you were low on oil?<br /><br />Rich
 

Spidybot

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Apr 4, 2002
Messages
1,734
Re: 2003 Merc 4stk 50 hp efi big problem

Agree with whaley.<br /><br />In the relation to your dealer/mechanic, you wan't to have his sympathy.<br /><br />Treat him as kindly as you can until more agression is really needed. <br /><br />Merc's warranty gives them the obligation to fix things like this. If your dealer fails feel free to choose another - the bill still goes to the manufacturer.<br /><br />BTW: A Honda might fail as well.
 

tema

Cadet
Joined
Sep 23, 2001
Messages
23
Re: 2003 Merc 4stk 50 hp efi big problem

Agree with Whaley, and agree with UU. <br />A Honda can fail, a Suzuki or even a Yamaha can fail, your new car can fail. Anything can fail, but as long as it's new and you have your warranty, there shouldn't be a problem, just inconvenience. And the inconvenience is the source of irritation, naturally. But don't sue anybody unless they refuse to cooperate, most likely everything will turn out ok, and you'll forget the whole thing.<br /><br />BTW, I have a Mariner 50hp 4stk efi 2002 model myself, which is exactly the same motor except for the painting on the hood. It has run perfectly until this weekend, when the starter and the trim/tilt system stopped working. I blamed the motor first, and imagined all the trouble getting it fixed. It turned out to be a bad cable between the battery and the main el switch, and had nothing to do with the motor itself. So don't blame anybody until you know who's to blame. Things are not always what they seem.
 

DP

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Sep 18, 2001
Messages
209
Re: 2003 Merc 4stk 50 hp efi big problem

I had the same problem with my 99 50 Merc 4 stroke on the second trip out. The alarm went off, I shut down and checked the oil which was full. Started it up and it was peeing a good stream. Went back to the launch in limp mode and took it back to the shop. All diagnostic checks were good, the mechanic put in a new oil pressure sender and it has run without a flaw in the three years since.<br />These things happen, be it a car or a boat. Hope you have a good dealer that will take care of it as it should be done. Just remember, as stated earlier, don't scream and holler when you take it in be friendly and talk the problem out.
 
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