Early Optimax 135?

[Brian E]

I am considering buying a '98 Mako rigged with a '99 Mercury Optimax 135. I've heard some nightmare stories about the early Optimax and all Direct Inject engines. For that matter, I'm hearing about troubles with later DI engines as well. I'm willing to give up fuel/oil efficiency for reliability, reliability, reliability... Any advice from the experienced?

 

[Jacques321]

Re: Early Optimax 135?

You don't have to be experienced to fear the purchase of an Optimax, especially a used one.<br /><br />Look elsewhere, and stick with a boat that has a 2 stroke carbureted or a midrange 4-stroke.