[jjt1276]

Just wanted to introduce myself as a new Mariah owner. I have just purchased my dad's 1999 Shabah 202 with a 5.0 merc. This boat has been my fathers for 13 years, and although I have spent many hours on this boat, I have no real boating experience. My dad NEVER let anyone drive his Mariah!

I do have all of the original documentation, even the 1999 and 2000 promotional slicks, and will be inquiring if any are wanted to be uploaded to the site.

I have the boat in the driveway and this weekend will begin the maintenance cycle of a new boat owner. As this is all new to me I will take any/all suggestions on what to do to get things ready for the year.

This boat has approximately 700 hrs. Only 250 on a new motor (dad fried the old one )

Planning on - oil change and out drive gear lube change. I have alpha one and merc 5.0/5.7 manual so I will check the maintenance sections there and do what items are listed. I am wondering if the hydraulic fluid for the out drive and power steering should be replaced as well? Any other maintenance items that should be done on the first year of ownership?

Thanks in advance!
Joe Tinney

[ShabahZ280]

Welcome to the MOC jjt1276!

For your maintenance, oil change and outdrive gear oil change is a yearly item. I always change mine at the end of the season. Since it's your first season, I'd recommend changing it before your season starts, just so it's got all new fluids in it. Make sure and use exactly what it recommends in the Mercruiser service manual. Also, change your fuel/water separator, it's a spin-on filter that is pretty easy to change. An new impeller would be a good idea too, if you don't know the last time this was changed.

You can change the hydraulic fluid for the outdrive trim and power steering, but it likely won't need it unless it's showing signs of contamination. Look in the fluid reservoirs and check the color of the fluid. If it seems off, or milky colored, foamy, etc, then change it. Make sure and consult the Mercruiser manuals for proper procedure, especially for the "bleeding" process. Air in these hydraulic systems is not a good thing, and bleeding them is simple.

If you're feeling extremely mechanical, you can change your spark plugs, distributor cap and rotor button if they need it. With 250 hours on the new motor, I'd check plugs and rotor to see what condition they're in.

Just make sure to use all the parts recommended in the service manuals, and don't use automotive grade parts. While it's true that "Marine" parts are more expensive, there's reasons why, and safety on the water is a very important thing for you and your passengers!