I have a yamaha kicker on my 198 it works fine if you flip the handle up when the motor is trimmed up, trimmed down its not much of an issue. Not sure how the handles compare merc vs yamaha.

I have a similar issue with my last mercury, ignition coil was bad right from the factory. At least at that time there were plenty of parts around.

Yes I realize that it not making oil, its fuel that is getting in the crankcase, its a commonly used term for this problem. Often this is caused by the engine not getting warm enough to burn it off thats why I asked about the thermostat. I know some other engines that have had this problem have been fixed by using a themrostat that runs a little warmer. It is in a Ranger boat with a seperate kicker line from the main tanked, plumbed in at the factory. I have not removed the thermostat yet, will get to it this week. Oil is not milky, it does smell like gas, I unhook the gas line when not in use and drain the carb when not using for more than 2 weeks. Thanks.

I just got one, interesting design, extendable handle is a very nice simple design. Very well built, all metal, no plastic parts like many of the currently popular nets. Its is about double what some nets are but I have enough friends that go through an ergo about every other year that I will be money ahead in a couple years. I had some issues with the ordering process and the first net they sent me, but they stood behind it and overnighted me a new one. I got one of the bigger ones 24×30 to use for northern and larger eyes. I may order a smaller hoop as well since it will just swap out and fit the handle.

Thank you, thats the type of feedback I was looking for.