opticmax starting question

[FISH2WIN55]

I have a 2001 optimax 225 I just bought. After about 5 times on the lake the motor started to take longer and longer to start. It is an intermitent problem. One time it starts right up the next it will crank two or three times for about 5 seconds each, and I have to choke it to start. The fuel ball is hard so I don't think I have a leak. Any info would be great.
Thanks

[biteme]

How many hours on it? Maybe it just needs a tune up, plugs ect.

[Andy Giannini]

Optis don't really have a choke. turn the key to run, wait for the beep, then turn to start.

It should go. If it doesn't have a wrench hook up a computer and do a self diagnosis. Its pretty cool the motor checks it self out, whirs, clicks, beeps, like R2 D2. There are codes for whatever may be the booger.

.02 A.G.

[rmcollins3]

Take it to Boatmasters II in Dublin and have them put it on the Dyno. They will tell you exactly (and only) what's wrong with it.

[L.Mickelson]

You have to crank an Opti 4 times for it to build pressure before the computer will let it fire.

[gone fishin' marine]

The guys are right, there is no choke on a Direct Fuel Injected motor. Hard starting can usually be attributed to fouled plugs or a fuel pressure issue. A certified shop can quickly diagnose this problem. You are right to be concerned, because typically these issues become worse. Let me know if you need any further help.
Mark 707 689-6042

[Grant]

I have the same motor and had the same problem. I took mine into C&C in Citrus Heights where they diagnosed bad air injectors on two of the cylinders. Five hundred dollars later the motor was purring again. Mike and Phil at the shop told me that this part just goes bad sometimes.

[FISH2WIN55]

Thanks everyone for your help I will take it down and have them take a look at it.