Mercury OptiMax Runs Poorly at High Engine Speeds
Posted: Thu Nov 17, 2022 9:34 am
In August 2022 problems began with Mercury OptiMax 200 engine on my 2001 VENTURA 21. The engine is sluggish and chugging running over 4,300 to 4,500-RPM.
Below is a list of repairs made or planned to be done:
BACKSTORY
I bought a 2001 Ventura 21 with a Mercury OptiMax 200 XL. The boat and engine was previously used in Connecticut. The boat is very clean. The survey of the boat was very positive. The boat is amazing. The boat will now be used in Canada, in the Lake Ontario and in the Muskoka Lakes. Our first outings with the 2001 VENTURA 21 with the OptiMax 200 were fine.
Below is a list of repairs made or planned to be done:
- Engine run time 483 hours
Fault codes: none
Peak cylinder pressure tested: good
Spark plugs: new
Coils: test as good
Fuel hose: found slice in hose due to use of improper clamp; replaced hose section
Primer bulb: replaced clamps
Fuel hose downstream of primer: suspected problem with gray hose. The fuel being used now is pure gasoline treated with Mercury Quickleen,
Air compressor: rated by mechanic as good. I have found a local rebuild service available; new seals were installed
Water pump: impeller replaced replaced. Good water flow
Vapor Separator Tank: needs to be cleaned. A needle valve is often a problem
Fuel lift pump; dIaphragm kit needs to be installed
Injectors: may need cleaning.
BACKSTORY
I bought a 2001 Ventura 21 with a Mercury OptiMax 200 XL. The boat and engine was previously used in Connecticut. The boat is very clean. The survey of the boat was very positive. The boat is amazing. The boat will now be used in Canada, in the Lake Ontario and in the Muskoka Lakes. Our first outings with the 2001 VENTURA 21 with the OptiMax 200 were fine.