I am going to look at a Skeeter with a 1996 200 Pro V. I Just want to ask for yall's opinion on the motor. Also, I have never owned a motor near this big. Could you guys give me some tips on proper maintenance on a big motor. I have have heard your have to treat them a little different than smaller outboards. If y'all could just give me some tips on keeping it running in top shape. Thanks     

The very first thing I would do before putting down any cash is to run a compression test on the motor to make certain all the cylinders are within 5-10 lbs. I would also see if he will let you pull the drain plug on the lower unit to check for water in the oil or metal shavings on the plug. It would be nice if the guy had maintenance records, but like myself many folks do their own. As far as treating them any different I would say using good fuel the best oil you can buy and not running the crap out of an older motor would be wise.

i learned years ago I am not a motor mechanic so the best thing I ever did, was do a local search and find the best mechanic around and let him do a yearly service..500 or so a year is not to much to protect the motor...on my first triton the dealer recommended chevron 87 and I have never switched other words I would not put the cheaper gas or oil in your motor.

Change the lower unit oil once a year, make sure the plugs are clean, keep the fuel filters clean, change the water impellar yearly...  I run ethanol free fuel in my Yamaha and use Yamaha ring free to keep the carbon build up at bay.  I just had my LU oil changed, plugs, 3 fuel filters, and impellar this week, set me back $400.  Those are all basic, routine maintenance anyone with a little time can do themselves.  I just didn't have the time or space to do the job.