Should I sell my Merc powered Seadoo?

[Matthew Flewelling]

I literally just bought this boat a week ago... but after talking to some mechanics, I was told "SELL THE BOAT" because these Mercs are notoriously bad... hence why Seadoo stopped using them after the 3 year venture. I don't want to sell it yet... however, is there anything I can do to maximize the life, so that it doesn't blow? I can't see how an engine would just blow for no good reason.... I'm guessing people have been failing to do maintenance, so I figured I'd ask what I can do based on experience of others. Or should I honestly just sell it before the engine blows? (Are they really that flaky??)

 

[Coastiejoe]

The Merc engine is fantastic when running well. But can certainly be a struggle when there is an issue with them. And, I think they used 5 different versions as well.
[MENTION=16022]Dr Honda[/MENTION] is our license resident when it comes to the Mercs. He has very good knowledge of them.

He may have some input that may be helpful as far a longevity.


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[gioakjoe]

what boat and engine do you have?

 

[Dr Honda]

The Merc engines are great, reliable engine. But, they are a little expensive, especially if you aren't doing the work. But then again, any boat is expensive if you are paying a mechanic.

I can say this... any +10 year old boat can have issues, or blow an engine for no apparent reason.

Anyway, do what you want. But there's nothing wrong with Merc in general.

Fyi... Seadoo used them for 6 years, not 3. It ended because Rotax finally released the supercharged 4-strokes in large quantities.

 

[gioakjoe]

Iv been on both sides of loving and hating I had one bad day by not closing my oil cap but other then that I love my 240efi my boat is rebuilt for another 10 years or till I get a bigger boat won't sell it till I trade up to a 20'+ boat

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