I’m debating on getting a new outboard for my 03 tr21 triton, it’s got a 03 225 optimax on it now that’s still running strong but I feel like with it being 20 yrs old now may be getting towards the end I’m guessing it’s got probably 500hrs on it so who knows it may go another 500, my thinking is maybe go ahead & bite the bullet while maybe I still have some trade in value on the old motor, just can’t make up my mind if I want to spend the $

Have your mechanic run some test especially compression and then decide

500hrs isn't a lot of hours on an outboard motor. Outside of that, I'm not much help

Rockit til it pops…then id go 4 stroke jap all day…

I wouldnt have anything mercury made today..i liked some of the two strokes and some of their baby carbed motors…other than that..if its black..it wont make it back🤣…i kid..kinda…not really…i did not grow up in a family of meecury sympathizers

Make sure you plan on keeping it forever. You will never recoup the money spent on a new motor. I see boats for sale all the time that they are asking a lot for because of a repower. They rarely sell, or bring what the people need. If you are going to keep it another 20 years, go for it. If not, get a newer boat.

My '84 Evinrude still pushing my '84 Ranger strong! I will run it until it blows up, which could be 2 weeks from now. If it runs and cranks good and you like it...why spend the money?....Like Carbon said, "Rockit til it pops"

I'd run it til it dies. If you love everything about the boat and the transom is still in 100% condition, then repower with a 4 stroke. Know this.... You'll NEVER get your money back out of it. That brand new motor will depreciate about 50% by just hanging it on a 30 year old boat.

Here's you a slightly used one.

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/349691291189094/?mibextid=dXMIcH

I can get a brand new one for not much more than that

I’ve ran a Mercury since 1978. Never had an issue. IMO run it till it blows.