Repowering 1999 Pantera

[Kyle J]

What model Pantera is going to make a difference. If it’s the boat in your picture it looks like maybe a classic with the deck insert in it.  But either way I’m not real sure the Suzuki in that HP range is going to be your best option. That’s going to be a small displacement 4 cylinder, where as Merc and Yamaha offer their big blocks in the 200HP range.

The classics of that era ran ok with the 2.5L mercury, but the 3.0 was a better option, and I think the PIII really didn’t like the smaller block.  Can’t speak to the PII of that era but I think it would likely do the best of the three models with less torque as it’s quite an efficient package.

Your set up will make a difference as well, such as jackplate, poles, battery type etc. too.   I’m sure someone who has forgotten more about these boats than I know can chime in but if it were me and I could find one I’d be putting a 200 SHO on her.

 

[ObiWan]

Kyle J:

What model Pantera is going to make a difference. If it’s the boat in your picture it looks like maybe a classic with the deck insert in it.  But either way I’m not real sure the Suzuki in that HP range is going to be your best option. That’s going to be a small displacement 4 cylinder, where as Merc and Yamaha offer their big blocks in the 200HP range.

The classics of that era ran ok with the 2.5L mercury, but the 3.0 was a better option, and I think the PIII really didn’t like the smaller block.  Can’t speak to the PII of that era but I think it would likely do the best of the three models with less torque as it’s quite an efficient package.

Your set up will make a difference as well, such as jackplate, poles, battery type etc. too.   I’m sure someone who has forgotten more about these boats than I know can chime in but if it were me and I could find one I’d be putting a 200 SHO on her.

 

Its a Classic DC (dual console).  I have no poles and will not be getting any.  No use for them here.  Currently have lead/acid batteries, but may want to switch to some lithiums soon as I think all my batteries need to be replaced.  Evidently lots of boats at that time came with a 150 because that was the limit on tour.  I’m not a tournament fisherman, so don’t care about that.  I want a stable ride with reliability.

I’ve talked with several dealers and all ay the Suzuki is more reliable than Merc or Yamaha.

 

[Jeeper8822]

I have experience with some older Zukes in the 115 and 140hp ranges. They were absolutely bullet proof and amazing engines. The fuel economy was fantastic, never needed anything other than routine maintenance, and always fired when I turned the key. Granted I don’t know if the performance of a Suzuki is going to be on par with a Pro XS or SHO but if reliability and fuel economy is of more importance to you than true all out performance I think the Suzuki is worth considering, 100%.

[Randal]

My first Cat was a 04 classic dual console with deck extension with a 200efi 2.5l and it ran 72-73 on a cool day, 68-70 in hot humid weather with a 25 tempest plus. I ran it and I mean ran it for 12 years and didn’t have one issue with it. IMO that is the most reliable engines Mercury has ever made. A friend of mine had same boat with a 05-06 or first year the 200efi was a 3.0l and his boat ran 75 on a good day and 70+ in any condition. Don’t know anyone running Suzuki.

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