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I have the 1988, 150HP version of the engine installed on my 1975 Outrage 19 (see personal website link). Mine has about 1100 hours on since new, and the only problem I had was a power trim unit total replacement for $1500. due to bad seals from lack of use by the prior owner. As expected, I also had to have a carb replacement parts and cleaning done, new plugs, etc. .

Other than that, the engine has been extremely reliable and powerful for it's small 2.0 liter displacment. The oil injection system works perfectly with no problems at all, and I have not experienced the stator problems that Chris has had. It has a throaty, distinctive idle sound, and is only average in the running sound decible category due to it's "split cowl" design. The later, twin 200 EFI's that I have on my 25 are MUCH quieter running, due to their single "bucket" cowl design.

Mine is a 20" engine, and it has a nice, trim, overall appearance. The 25" XL versions have a "thicker" looking gearcase profile which I don't like, since Mercury used a 5" extension kit for achieve the extra length. Merecury did not come out with a taller 25" mid section until 1989.

This engine weighs no more than the current crop of 4-stroke 90's now on the market.