Name:	rdfarr -	Reply
Subject:	Merc 225 mech in Dadeville?
Date:	3/7/2015 9:30:21 AM

Need the services of an experienced Merc 225 Optimax (2004 vintage) mechanice in Dadeville/Alex City area.  Engine surging. 

I'd take it to Catboat, but he's too far away.  (Sorry)

Any recommendations? 

Name:	CAT BOAT -	Reply
Subject:	Merc 225 mech in Dadeville?
Date:	3/8/2015 9:15:46 AM

How about I meet you half way, and bring it to the shop.  I love an Optimax. 

Name:	rdfarr -	Reply
Subject:	Merc 225 mech in Dadeville?
Date:	3/8/2015 9:29:48 AM

Thanks, but I'll bring it to you tomorrow in Prattville.

Name:	CAT BOAT -	Reply
Subject:	Merc 225 mech in Dadeville?
Date:	3/8/2015 9:37:25 AM

Well, that was a quick turn of events.  I certainley look forward to meeting you.  Thanks for your support, it is appreciated very much.

Steve

Name:	rdfarr -	Reply
Subject:	Merc 225 mech in Dadeville?
Date:	3/8/2015 12:02:44 PM

Barring inclement weather, or first of Spring trailer problems.  

Trailer wheels have a habit of locking up with first use after storage.   

Name:	rdfarr -	Reply
Subject:	Merc 225 mech in Dadeville?
Date:	3/10/2015 8:37:50 AM

CAT BOAT:  The boat won't go into the water till probably late April.  No hurry.  

Name:	HARRY -	Reply
Subject:	Merc 225 mech in Dadeville?
Date:	3/13/2015 10:36:26 AM

No reflection on Cat but never tell your mechanic you're in no hurry.lol

Name:	rdfarr -	Reply
Subject:	Merc 225 mech in Dadeville?
Date:	3/13/2015 11:19:56 AM

Cat Boat turned the boat around in just two days which included detailed computer diagnosis, repair, and sea trial.  

Could not be more pleased with the transaction.  Highly recommend. 

Name:	CAT BOAT -	Reply
Subject:	Merc 225 mech in Dadeville?
Date:	3/14/2015 12:27:44 AM

RDFARR,....  I told you!  I would get it back to you ASAP.  We needed the Money.   lol.  Just kidding.  Thank yall so much for the support.  Really nice rig you brought us to work on.  It was a pleasure Sir.  HARRY.  save those words of wisdom for mid summer.  Thanks.  Now, lets get these boats ready for SUNSHINEY DAYS. 

Name:	MrHodja -	Reply
Subject:	CAT, You Doing Any House Calls This Spring?
Date:	3/21/2015 10:59:28 AM

My Suzuki Outboard needs an oil change, and trailering it all the way to your place in P'ville isn't very high on my Bucket List.

Name:	CAT BOAT -	Reply
Subject:	CAT, You Doing Any House Calls This Spring?
Date:	3/31/2015 3:25:47 PM

Lemme know when u want us there. 

Name:	rdfarr -	Reply
Subject:	Merc 225 mech in Dadeville?
Date:	6/19/2015 10:44:02 AM

Hey, Catboat!  I've finally got my 22' Whitley in the water a couple of weeks ago. Boat runs like a scalded dog instead of a stumbling pig.  Thanks for the great tune-up. 

Got a problem and a question regarding batteries: (Don't have experience with big boats; my previous boat was a 17' center console with a 115HP OB.) 

My boat has two batteries controlled by a rotary switch: OFF-1-BOTH-2.  Not quite sure why two batteries are required. 

After a couple of outings, had a hard time cranking the engine.  Checking the two batteries, found them way low, requiring most of a quart of distilled water to top them off.  I think the Bass Pro Shop bank charger malfunctioned and boiled them almost dry, and there are user comments about that effect on BassPro site.  Now, my batteries won't even turn on the depthfinder, much less the starter. Nothing. 

Rather than replace two batteries, I think I should need only one 800 CCA marine battery. I'm a day, lake cruiser, and don't use a lot of electrical devices.  I'd like to bypass using the installed bank charger, which I don't trust, and just use my own portable charger which I trust.  One battery simplifies charging. 

Anything I'm overlooking? Any reason that my one battery plan is inadvisable?

Thanks again!   

Name:	CAT BOAT -	Reply
Subject:	Merc 225 mech in Dadeville?
Date:	6/19/2015 12:41:54 PM

Nope, one should be just fine with your circumstances.  Glad she is running good.  That is a nice rig you got there.  Let me know if I can help you.

Steve

Name:	rdfarr -	Reply
Subject:	Merc 225 mech in Dadeville?
Date:	6/19/2015 5:03:16 PM

 Thanks for the info. Yes, I'll call if I need any engine work.  You guys are the pros.  

Name:	rdfarr -	Reply
Subject:	Merc 225 mech in Dadeville?
Date:	7/4/2015 7:20:04 AM

Catboat: Got an electrical problem.  Replaced the dual batteries.  engine starts and runs fine, but NO other electrical services. Can't see any disconnects or bad fuses in the boat electricals lines.  Suspect the battery selector switch, but it's only a guess. Anyone you got can possibly fix that onsite? 

Name:	CAT BOAT -	Reply
Subject:	Merc 225 mech in Dadeville?
Date:	7/4/2015 9:44:12 AM

You probably just overlooked a couple of wires on the battery.  Go back, and look around real good.  If they worked before, that is prolly all that is wrong. 

Name:	rdfarr -	Reply
Subject:	Merc 225 mech in Dadeville?
Date:	7/12/2015 9:16:47 PM

You were right.  I missed a single small ground wire hidden among the disconnected  wires of the multiple battery charger that I no longer trust.