Evinrude or Merc?? Suggestions??

[shaggyyqq]

I am looking a purchasing a new motor for my 19ft Bayliner Cuddy. I've been looking at a 1999 Evinrude 90hp ficht for $5995.00 cdn or a 1998 135 Merc Optimax for $6000.00 cdn. Any good points or horror stories about the above engines would be appreciated. Suggestions also welcomed.

 

[JB]

Re: Evinrude or Merc?? Suggestions??

Howdy, Shag.<br /><br />This is not really an engine trouble.<br /><br />The 1999 Fichts were the worst engines OMC ever made. The V4s apparently weren't as bad as the V6s. Perhaps if it has been redone by Bombardier and would be warranted by them I would consider it. Otherwise not a chance.<br /><br />I haven't heard a lot of good things about the late 90s Optimax either.<br /><br />I would go find another engine. The reason these two are so cheap is their reputation.

 

[shaggyyqq]

Re: Evinrude or Merc?? Suggestions??

Thanks for the quick reply. I've been doing alot of research on these engines and found that you are correct with the Merc but I've got mixed info about the Evinrude. From what I understand it is the V6's that are the troublemakers and the V4's are very good engines. Is this true? Anyone shed some light on the subject?

 

[MIKE F]

Re: Evinrude or Merc?? Suggestions??

I think, you are taking a chance, with either engine. Some people, have had good luck with them, while others, have had nothing but problems. It's a question of, how lucky do you feel? <br />How much is that, in U.S. dollars? Those prices seem too high.

 

[shaggyyqq]

Re: Evinrude or Merc?? Suggestions??

I think you're right it would be a chance. The price is about $4000.00 US. Thanks for the opinion.