Got a beautiful 2004 Nitro w a Merc XR6 200 on it from a very generous gentleman. Great price.. but am looking for some advice on what i should do with the powerhead. #1 cylinder is toast, had impeller failure.. engine still starts, but only has bout 40 pounds compression on #1.. other 5 cylinders are fine and within range. should i have it rebuilt, or just have the 1 cylinder repaired..? Im in central texas so any good mechanics that you know can do the work and offer some sort of warranty would be helpful for my first steps. depending on the work depends on the price.. what would i be looking at for those scenarios using mercury oem parts.. ?

Bring on another thousand.

It is never a good idea to rebuild just one cylinder. Do the whole motor and have a near new power head. Texas Outboard Rebuilders in Tool, TX, near Cedar Creek lake ((903) 432-2330) is one of the best around. They also have a great warranty program. You'll thank me later.

I can rebuild your motor for you

Appreciate the advice. I was thinking the same.. id like a new rebuild, fresh powerhead. Tool tx is a little ways but im all about having it done right.. Thank you for the reply boatman.. what would i be looking at price wise out the door and what kind of warranty? Your a ways away but again just looking for the best route.

I was recently in your same boat, well not your boat but mine, sorry, dad joke. My 2004 XR6, which all xr6's are 150hp, crapped out. I opted to send the power head to Chris Carson Marine in Florida. Now, if you're in a hurry, don't use him. If you want it done right for a good price, he's the best. My block was cracked and the crank was trashed. He charged me 5k for a complete powerhead rebuild including the first 2 hour break in. The price included $200 for polishing and honing ports, rods, etc. The motor runs like butter and makes 175hp now. It was for the fully dressed power head. He has a 1 year warranty with another year at 50%. It took 4 mos to get this done. If you want it done quick and, from what I hear, done right as well. East Texas Outboard Rebuilders in Tool does a good job. They will run you about the same price, maybe a little cheaper. I am not sure you will get the same attention to detail but I have not heard anything bad about them. Prices vary depending on short block, dressed block, motor on boat, etc. The other option is to buy an OBR remanufactured powerhead online. They come with a 1 year warranty and you can buy a second year. For around 4.5K you can get one sent to you.

Great reply.. thank you sir.. good joke too.. i giggled.. ha.. my xr6 says its a 200 hp. false advertisement? ya i saw some powerheads online from crowley marine.. seem fairly reasonable.. best thing may be to buy one online an have a certified mechanic install it..

Lee has extensive knowledge and experience with everything to do with Mercury..if you need anything, be good idea to call him
Custom Marine Service
2429 Fabens Road #200
Dallas, TX 75229
972-484-6505

Charlie's Outboard Service in Alvarado.

before you do anything call him

am just finishing up a repower, smart move to rebuild as the taxes on a used outboard are outrageous.

if you want to talk to another that knows mercs call steve at hydrodynamics in quitman, he races mercs as well as sells them.

Address: 714 S Main St, Quitman, TX 75783
Hours:
Closed ⋅ Opens 8AM Fri
Phone: (903) 763-5225

I appreciate all your suggestions.. i ended up calling a few people and chose Texas outboard rebuild.. Dina really got thorough with the steps they take during the process. They'll go over the motor from top to bottom.. replace all fuel lines/bulb. service lower end.. 4 hour break in and a lake test.. cant really ask for better..