optimax servicing and workshop manuals

[gtflash]

service on my 2000 optimax 200 has apparently highlighted some very expensive issues. The dealer is blaming past services for lack of detail.

Could someone give an indication of the importance of these if any, and advise if any of these issues are DIY able.

Has old thermostat and needs upgrading to new unit.
Trim ram ball joint things missing so needs new rams.
HT leads old and cracked.
Brass fittings on water hose kit corodedpink and need replacing with new non brass kit. (believe its hoses that lift water to top of block)
Exhaust gas lower hose is brittle and a new design is available

Sorry not to have the exact technical terms.

Has anyone got the workshop manuals for a 2000 200 optimax pllllllllllllllllease

[HUMBER P4VWL]

http://www.tractor-manuals.com/acata...ERCURY_60.html

will post if i find a free one to download

[gtflash]

Originally Posted by HUMBER P4VWL

http://www.tractor-manuals.com/acata...ERCURY_60.html

will post if i find a free one to download

thanks, im looking too. But for info all above work is going to cost me around £800-900 +vat not including the general servicing costs

[Hightower]

Could you not do some of the stuff yourself. HT leads are easy and I bet you could get them for a better price than the dealers. How about the hose replacement and thermostat, these are normally within the DIYers capabilities too.

If it's anything like my DI then there will be multiple thermostats to look at, I have 3 of them.

What dealers did you go to? I'm sure someone could recommend a man in a van that will do the work cheaper than Dealers prices?

[Hightower]

I used to visit the Mercury Parts Express website when I used to own a Merc. But it's not letting me get in there anymore as I'm outside the USA.

Is there anyway of accessing parts info for GT in this manner?

[Jizm]

Who is your dealer? Do you trust them?
To me that is more important, I use a garage for my car that is part of a national chain, it is not cheap. However my Brother in law is the assistant manager so if they say it needs something, it needs it, and if they say they have done something, it HAS been done. If you trust the dealer then carry on if not, find some one you do. I know cost has a bearing on it but I would rather pay and have faith in my motor than skimp and have a breakdown at sea...
Just my 2p worth.
I agree with Andy though, do as much as you can yourself as long as you are confident to do so. There are plenty of local ribbers on here that are probably willing to help, that includes me if I can.

[gtflash]

I work on my own cars, built a track day car etc so am more than capable I think. I wont currently say who the dealer is but I honestly think he is taking the P*$s a little, as he can see how much money ive spent on the boat recently.... Ive heard rumours he is expensive but he is always busy!!

I think, thermostat, coolant hoses, ht leads, possibly even the hose through to exhaust, .are doo able Obvioulsy id like a manual and there are several to choose from, clymer and official merc. The parts pricing seems to match, but his labour appears to not have official times, just another days labour rate.

Bigest problem being Ive spent so much on the boat over last 6 months another £1700 will break the bank

[Ribshop]

Any engineer worth using and that has the right tools could to that additional list in around 3-4 hours if they are trying to charge a days labour I think it’s a bit OTT.

[PeterM]

I have used RIBS Marine for my opti as have I think other Ribneters . Again not always the cheapest but always 'seem' to be honest & know thier stuff. They also have an online parts store - not the simplest to use but once you have set up the engine etc it find the right parts for you .

Closed Sat & Sun , but may be worth a call on Monday for an opinion , or just order the bits and give it a go ?

I'm guessing parts wise the trim ball jount things are very expensive - maybe worth looking for used ones?

As said worth being sure its not going to stop at the wrong point ..........

http://www.ribsmarine.co.uk/

Unless its them thats telling you allthis !

[gtflash]

DCM lymington