Opinions needed, 2001 Merc 9.9 four stroke

[fish56]

Just picked up a like new, 2001 Mercury 9.9 four stroke. Older gentleman was the original owner, motor has maybe 25-30 hours on it, hardly used, super clean, not even any wear on the prop or lower end. Only negative I see at this point is the motor's weight, 112 lbs., so it's going to be a chore to use it as a portable. I currently own two small boats, a 12' jonboat and a 14' smokercraft v-hull, both rated at 15HP. Anyone have any experience, good or bad, with these motors?
Thanks,
Bill

 

[Star]

Re: Opinions needed, 2001 Merc 9.9 four stroke

I have owned a 15 hp 05 4 stroke for three years. the same as the 9.9 plus a carb or jet change. Yes it is heavy and at an age of 67 years I have to jack it on and off my 14' starcraft aluminum. With some tweeking and a prop i get 21.6mph (gps). I love the fuel consumption, and the lack of 2 cycle stink. I does require more maint than a 2 cycle. I recomend you change the oil my previous owner never did and it took at least 3 changes to clean it up. I have read some threads about hard starting but that is due to bad gas. I have mine idled down to 850 rpm, smooth as glass. Good luck on your choice.

 

[fish56]

Re: Opinions needed, 2001 Merc 9.9 four stroke

Star,
Thanks for the reply. This 9.9 is so clean, I couldn't pass up buying it. Previous owner really takes care of his stuff. You should see his Alumacraft boat. Now, I have done some searches online and see that Mercury must have made some changes over the years, as I've seen a 2006 weighs 84.7 lbs. versus the 112 lbs. my 2001 weighs.