2021 230 ZR4 Oil Pressure NEW Engine

[Phil8uga]

My best friend has a 2021 230 with 120 hours. He is an experienced boater and the original owner. While surfing he got a "engine oil pressure low stage 2 DTC 524 AND a DTC 520 Engine oil pressure low stage 1 code. He immediately went back to the dock and called the dealer. The dealer came out and said it was a loose battery terminal. The next week he took the boat out and after 20 minutes the same code(s) displayed and the boat went into limp mode. The dealer came out to his boat dock and had no idea why this is happening. My buddy had to have his brand new boat towed to the boat ramp and he drove it into the dealers shop. A week goes by and the dealer calls and tells him he needs a new engine. My friend was not expecting this phone call. The dealer has ordered a new engine and will be installing within the next 2-3 weeks. The dealer also informed him that on this year the ZR4 has been experiencing oil pressure issues. Is this a common issue for the ZR4 and has anyone else experienced this? If this is an issue, he is thinking about upgrading engines. Is this even an option and if so, what engine would you recommend? He does not mind paying the difference for an upgraded engine especially since he plans on keeping this boat for 20 years. The good news is that the dealer and Nautique are fixing the problem, but I am curious about the ZR4. Thoughts?

[NautiqueJeff]

I have heard of a handful of ZR4 engines with this issue. Not many, but a few.

Not a bad idea to upgrade the engine if that is something the warranty will allow, with him paying the difference. You could go to a ZZ6 (6.2L), ZR7 (7.4L), or even a ZZ8 (supercharged 6.2L). The ZZ8 will be quite the extra charge though, and the ZR7 will drink gas. A ZZ6 in a 230 would be a great setup I think.

https://pcmengines.com/engines/nautique/

[jpwhit]

I think it'll depend on if they are really replacing the whole engine or just putting in a long block engine. If they are putting in a new long block, they will be using all the engine accessories, fuel induction, and exhaust systems. Those will all be different if you change engines. Prop may also change if you change engines.

[teamolson]

I had a 2019 230 and the same issue happened to me at 124 hours. Nautique replaced the block, oil pump and all necessary hoses. I upgraded to a G23, but sold to a good friend and the boat now has 375 hours on it and it’s been perfect since with no issues. FWIW I wouldn’t upgrade, but that’s based on my experience only.

I was beyond impressed with Nautique’s response to the problem. Apparently it happens to a small percentage of those motors and when it comes up they just replace instead of studying to see if any real damage occurred. First calls in my book. Hope not all works out for you!