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[GoneFission]

Thanks guys.  I will definitely look into Franzen.

What can I expect for costs to install and rig an engine?  Additionally, where can I find info on compatibility of rigging?  Say I want to upgrade from my 1997 Merc to a 2008 Optimax.  I can't seem to find much on the web, I assume I may have to pay for completely new rigging.

You COULD switch over from your 1997 to an Optimax with the old harness and an adapter, but you probably do not want to.  You would lose the network capabilities of the Optimax and the digital capabilities.  The SmartCraft monitoring system and gauges are slick!  You can backfit it a bit with a CAN (computer area network) cable and use the current 10 conductor/pin setup.  Optimax motors do not require digital steering and throttle, so you can use your old shift and steering setup with any Optimax (but not Verado!)  The Optimax has been around a while now, and you can get cables and rigging equipment for a reasonable price on eBay if it does not come with the motor. 

Oh - and you can also add the Vessel View Mobile and have all your engine info on your cell phone!  https://www.mercurymarine.com/en/us/gauges-and-controls/gauges-displays/vesselview-mobile/ 

Also the Optimax uses the same oil tank setup, but you will need to fully drain the oil tank and refill it with the special DI-Optimax oil.  You also need to be careful with battery cables - the Optimax's higher compression means more amps and maybe a heavier battery cable.  Here's a link to the Optimax installation guide that should work for the engine you have in mind:  http://www.motooff.ru/assets/files/doc/Mercury/MERCURY__200_225_250_OptiMax_Instruktsiya_po_ustanovke_lodochnyh_motorov.pdf 

[CTsalt12]

Wow SmartCraft and Vessel View does seem awesome.  I think an Optimax may be in my future, despite the 4 stroke 'revolution'.  Just gotta find the right one and the right mechanic to do the rigging.

[GoneFission]

Wanna see her run?  Here's a holeshot - this is on my 22-2CCP with full fuel, equipment, and 2 large people on board: