What about Merc?

[Jeffn]

Hey all, seen hours of threads on the pros/cons of a just about every builder but not a word on Mercury 2 strokes. I was wondering if they were so bad that they didn't warrant discussion but I posted on another boat site and the consensus is that they're better than anything out there, Etec included.

Any opinions/experience/fact?

And just noticed my newbie status-was in here years ago, had to re-register and am still contemplating jumping back to sail after 30+ yrs of stinkers.

[James V]

The 2 cycle motors are not sold any more. The Mers have been a long line of the more expensive motors that have a good, reliable reputation.

I really do not sail much but use the boat as a home on the water. 2900 miles in about 100 days on the water. A lot of different places to spend the night and the cost is right (after paying for the boat).

[Jeffn]

northamerica. mercurymarine. com/engines /outboards/optimax/

Is this something new? They still list them online.

I guess I should mention I was considering >50hp....

[Moe]

Like the Evinrude FICHT (E-TEC predecessor), the Mercury OptiMax had some initial problems, and got a bad reputation early on. Some jumped ship to the Yamaha HPDI while others went to four-strokes. From what I read on the Boston Whaler and TheHullTruth forums, they're well past that. The OptiMax is about as good as any other outboard out there, but there are still some who refuse to forget.

[James V]

You may be happier with the bigfoot at the dock and lower speeds.

[Moe]

The 75/90 HP Optimax 2.33:1 foot is what the 40-60HP BigFoot uses.

[James V]

Thanks Moe, I did not know.

[Richard O'Brien]

I have a merc 2000 60 bigfoot with a 14/10 prop. Always starts, has a big generator to charge the batts. I think it's a great motor. I just don't use the motor much except for docking and in and out of the marina. Two strokes don't putz around very well. I'm putting it in storage next week because of the weight, and putting a little 9.9 on. If I ever make it to the coast I'll be sure and stick it back on.

[tlperrine]

I have a 2004 Merc 25 hp 4 stroke Bigfoot. It has been a very reliable motor. I was looking for something to get me out of harms way when the winds kick up. It has been the right mix of power, reliability, and lighter weight. That was the magic number for me, as we only lake sail here in Colorado.
Terry

[Catigale]

50 HP EFI Bigfoot on Catigale..very happy with it and the only maintenance issue is running out of fuel..

[Derek Wenn]

I use a Merc 60 Bigfoot and do a lot of Tubing and Skiing with it at High Altitude. It Always starts and runs great. I'm still trying to decide on the best prop. Right now I use a 14x11.