merc optimax question
 

I have a 2 yr. old 175 hp merc optimax. Has anyone on this board who has optimax engines had trouble with corosion on the starter and alternator? My mechanic opened it up a few weeks ago to give the engine the once over before I put the boat back in the water and found excessive corrosion on both parts. The starter was frozen and the alterator isn't working properly. The boat only sat idle for two months. Any feedback would be apprechiated.

Re: merc optimax question
 

I bought my boat new in 04 with a merc.IF i took the cover off it right now it still looks new .When you winterize it do you spay down the moter .I use an anti rust spray for wires and parts made by the same co that makes the fogger. IF not sounds like you got saly water on it and it was never washed off.

Re: merc optimax question
 

I have not heard of any issues but it does not mean there aren't any...

Sounds to me like your starter and alternator were sprayed with Salt Water they corroded and then froze up..

First thing I would do is try to determine what caused the issue in the first place.... Start your engine up on the hose and determine if there is a leak on the raw water cooling side... Could be as simple as a cracked gasket or hose. If it not that then maybe your lower engine cowl is allowing salt water to spray up into your engine??

Good luck and hope your fix is something simple and not too expensive.

Re: merc optimax question
 

I have an 07' optimax and haven't had any problems with corosion. I spray the entire area under the cowl with CRC6-56 a couple times a season and right before I put it up for the winter. I spray all my electrical connections also.

Re: merc optimax question
 

If you have a transom mount transducer, make sure it is kicking up ay spray that is shooting into the cowling.

I have never really heard of that issue with Optimax or any outboards for the most part as a common complaint.

Re: merc optimax question
 

Good point. I fixed mine by wrapping electrical tape around the gap in the bracket.

Re: merc optimax question
 

\

I am fixing mine by installing a thru hull and ripping my transom mount off next week ;)

Re: merc optimax question
 

Thanks for all your input guys. I'll keep you posted as to what I find out.

Re: merc optimax question
 

For you guys that have optimax's, I've got props that fit them I'm selling
Here's the link.
http://www.njfishing.com/forums/showthread.php?t=8440