Optimax 135: running in.

[Andy Moore]

Whats the score on running in an Optimax engine?

[codprawn]

The OptiMax does have a programmed 120-minute break-in mode that kicks in above 2,500-RPM IF the engine computer senses enough load. The motor should be run between 3,500 to 4,500 during this break in period. If you just idle around or run the engine too easily the break in minutes will not decrease. Running a propeller with a pitch that is too small can prevent break credit as well.

Just found this that might be of interest.

Generally speaking despite what manufacturers say the longer you run in an engine the better it will last. Having said that you have to be carefull you don't run it too light otherwise you get glazing of the bores etc.

Varying throttle settings often is good - don't keep it running at set rpm - and only very short periods of full throttle and not until you have a few hrs on the clock.

[JIY]

Hi Andy,

My RIB has a 2006 model 200hp Optimax, which has just completed 14 hours. I guess there may be differences for the 135, but my manual states:

For the first hour of operation, allow the engine to warm up for 30-60 seconds.

Run the engine at varied throttle settings, the majority of the time between 3000 and 4500 rpm.

Change engine speed approximately every 2 minutes, avoid continuous operation at idle speed for more than 10 minutes. Shorts burst of full throttle for periods up to 10 seconds are acceptable.

Avoid trimming the outboard up beyoned a vertical trim position during operation.

For the next 3 hours of operation, change the engine speed every 10 minutes.

The engine automatically receives extra oil during the first hours of operation, for most boaters this will be complete in about 10 hours.

Hope this is useful,

Jim

[Andy Moore]

Thanks guys! Very helpful.

[Andy Moore]

Can anyone confirm that the 135 is a V6? I read one review and it said it wasn't.

[hard1]

You better ask Googleprawn - he seems to be the resident Opti expert.....

[hard1]

Mercury OptiMax 135
SPECIFICATIONS
HP @ Prop: 135
kW @ Prop: 101.7
Max RPM (WOT): 5000-5600
Cylinder/Configuration: V-6 (60 degree vee)
Displacement (CID/cc): 153/2507
Bore & Stroke (in): 3.50 x 2.65
Bore & Stroke (mm): 89 x 67
Cooling System:
Water cooled w/thermostat and pressure controlled
Ignition System: PCM 038
Starting: Electric (Turnkey)
Gear Ratio: 2.00:1
Gear Shift: F-N-R
Steering: Remote
Alternator Amp: 60 (belt-driven)
Alternator Watt: 756 (belt-driven)
Trim System: Power trim standard
Exhaust System: Through prop
Lubrication System: Electronic multipoint
Fuel Induction System: 2-Stage Direct Fuel Injection
Shaft Length (inches): 20/25
Shaft Length (mm): 508/635
Dry Weight (lbs.) (Lightest Version model, excludes engine oil, rigging, hardware and propeller):
431
Dry Weight (kg.) (Lightest Version model, excludes engine oil, rigging, hardware and propeller):
195
SmartCraft: Yes
CARB Star Rating: 3
Warranty: 2 + 1
Recommended Oil: Mercury OptiMax/DFI Engine Oil

[Andy Moore]

Thanks.

[bogib]

It is the Verado 135 which is 4 cylinder in line.

Bogi

[Andy Moore]

Originally Posted by bogib

It is the Verado 135 which is 4 cylinder in line.

Bogi

No, the 2-stroke.

[Richard B]

Opti 115 is a 4-pot.

[Andy Moore]

Originally Posted by Richard B

Opti 115 is a 4-pot.

The Mercury website says 3 (in line).

[Richard B]

I guess they know a bit better than me!

[Turbodiesel]

Opti 135 to 225 are All V6,
Opti 75hp to 115hp are all three cylinder
Verado 135 and 150 are four cylinder

[Rogue Wave]

Your dealer will be in a place to give you good advice on running in when it is delivered. from my own experience of running in an opti 150 (same block as yours) it is important to get the free 10 hour service done on time (as it can invalidate your warranty) . I think th eservice is more or less a gearbox oil change. but you have to do itor they can bounce the warranty.

Also try and get from your dealer some confirmation of what type of engine rev limitation is in place, I have found very conflicting reports from opti guys , but i do know the mechanics all like to say it's ben overeved youre a very bad opti owner.

whether this is a techinque they us to try and get the upper hand in the negotiations or whether it is a part of the warranty voiding is well worth finding out from Bembridge.........The mechanics I have dealt with have all been mainland guys but it's worth finding out!

You wont find that on google will you. TD might be able to give us an informed opinion on the limits of the limiters

[Andy Moore]

I will make sure I get chapter & verse from Bembridge Outboards on running in.

[rbw156]

Originally Posted by Rogue Wave

Your dealer will be in a place to give you good advice on running in when it is delivered. from my own experience of running in an opti 150 (same block as yours) it is important to get the free 10 hour service done on time (as it can invalidate your warranty) . I think th eservice is more or less a gearbox oil change. but you have to do itor they can bounce the warranty.

Free 10 hour service! I paid for mine! Is this a dealer or a Mercury thing?

[Rogue Wave]

Maybe you do have to pay for it, I didn't but It might have been included in the price I paid

[Turbodiesel]

I think from memory the rev limit comes in at 6000 Rpm. But its quite clever. Initially it wont limit the rpm, it will just start the warning horns going and your instruments will say back off throttle. If you keep the throttle open it will then put the engine guardian on and start to limit your rpm, it will do this until you back off. Then i think it will switch the guardian off. Its a bit of a pain in the arse but it keeps the engine from blowing up which is probably a good thing in the long run!!. It can be quite annoying if you spend lots of time out of the water i tend to find that when the alarm goes off i have to keep looking at the gauges to make sure nothing expencive is happening!!
And dont quote me on the figures all from memory!!!.