2000 Johnson 200hp Ocean Pro?

[alandry100]

Not trying to start a war but wondering about experiences with this engine. Looking at a 2000 245 Explorer with this engine. Looks clean ~ 225 hours. I have heard about VRO issues with this but understand this was an early problem.

[Capt. Bob]

I have heard about VRO issues with this but understand this was an early problem.

Circa 1985.

[seabob4]

Good engine, but on a 245, you'll wish you had more HP...JMHO

[alandry100]

that's 225 --- typo

[seabob4]

that's 225 --- typo

OK.  Standard set-up on a 245 (200 was standard).  Almost all were 225s or twin 150s...

[Bergertime]

I have a 1998 225 Johnson on my 245 Osprey (same hull as the Explorer).  She has plenty of power to plane but you are not going to break any speed records.  

Some info- On Saturday I went out with 1000 lbs of fuel, 100+ lbs of ice, 4 guys and gear with live well full and I have no problems getting on plane. I have mine propped with a 15x17 SS prop which I am happy with for my hole shot and cruise performance although the downside is I lose a little top end, maybe 3-5 mph tops.  Best case I get 40-41mph with light load, trimmed out with still water.

As far a economy goes.. At 4200 rpm with decent water and medium load I burn approx 14.5-15 gph at 30 mph which seems to be the sweet spot for my rig. With the same conditions I can get her down in the upper 12s-13s gph but I give up some speed.. 26-27 mph.  

I have had some mechanical work done over the last two years which is typical for an engine of that age but she starts easily after sitting for two or more weeks and after she is initially started all re-starts are just a bump of the key.  

Btw- The other Bruce will likely add his thoughts as he has the same rig you are speaking of.

Hope that helps..

B

[alandry100]

Thanks for the replies - for clarification looking at a 225 Explorer with a 200 hp engine. Good to hear about the engine - If it is still there in a few weeks when we close on our new house will take a serious look.

[wingtime]

OK well you have the same set up as some other members.  

It is amazing the myths that still follow the VRO around after all these years.  It is a very reliable system. In fact on the motor you are talking about it is no longer called a VRO it is the third generation called OMS (Oil Metering System) Here is a good article on the VRO:
http://continuouswave.com/whaler/reference/VRO.html

The 3.0 liter V-6 OMC is a good solid motor with lots of torque and is easy to maintain.

As Bruce (Bergertime) said I have the Explorer version of his boat otherwise the same hull, same year, same motor, even the same prop.   Amazingly after talking with him at the gathering our performance numbers are almost identical.  This is despite the fact that my boat is heavier, has a hard top and has bottom paint.  I think he might have a 1-2 MPH higher tops speed but that is it.  My fuel burn is the same as his cruising at 4200 RPM at 28-30 MPH.

A 225 powered with a 200 is a good match.  Even better would be a 225HP.