200 Evinrude HO

[Big dreams]

Has anyone heard of good/bad things about this motor?  The one I am looking at is a 2004.  Any areas that I need to be aware of? 

Thanks,

BgD

[SethV]

With an DFI motor, how it has been cared for and run is a huge factor in the longevity of the motor. 

I have never owned a 'rude HO, but I am not too impressed with them from what I have seen on others boats.  Strong motors, but it seems they like to blow up a bit more than I care for.  But take my opinion lightly as I have never owned one.

Get it checked out by a good mechanic before you buy.  At that age it is out of warranty and these suckers are expensive to repair.

Really only 2 kinds of motors out there.....those that have blown up, and those that will.

[Big dreams]

I found a boat that I can not pass up.  It has this motor on it.  The guy told me that it has a new lower unit and the motor has been rebuilt last summer.  Said something about one of the cylinders was acting up.  It is a far drive from here so I was hoping to get some advice as to anything that I can look for.  I plan on taking it to a mechanic and for a test drive.  Hopefully all of the cylinders are equal...

[SethV]

"Rebuilt last summer" -  that does raise some red flags.  It really depends on who did the work.  If it was someone like Blackbirds - run and run away fast.  Check the reputation of the person that rebuilt it.  If it was rebuilt last summer - does it have a warranty?  Some builders give 1 year warranties on rebuilds.

Good luck!!

[Big dreams]

I think his local marina did the work.  Another thing that raises a flag to me is it has all new carpet and seats.  I wouldn't think a 2004 would need all that.  Small stress cracks I think are normal.  A few scrapes on the bottom side which is normal. 

I stand corrected, motor rebuilt in 2008 and runs good.  New lower unit last July. 

Sounds like it was rode hard.  But it is a great deal...

[Potter]

I have a Cat with a 200HO.  Runs very strong.  Take the rig to a place of YOUR choosing and have it totally checked out. 

[Big dreams]

I have chosen not to purchase the boat.  I think I would be settling and not getting what I really want.  Not a bad price though for a 2004 Champion 188 Elite  $10,000.  Even had the Maxxum Pro 80 on it.  Just too far to drive and too much stuff has been replaced/fixed on this thing for me.

Thanks for your input as it helped in deciding.

BgD