Older 4-stroke or newer 2-stroke?

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mhaas42

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Jul 15, 2025
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I am looking at two different boats. One has a 1994 Honda 4-stroke 90 hp and the other has a 2006 Yamaha 90 hp 2-stroke. Assuming similar hours & condition, based solely on reliability, which is likely to be the better engine? Again, not concerned with speed, only reliability. What do you think?
 
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Mc Tool

Chief Petty Officer
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Aug 7, 2024
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The Yam will get the best hole shot but the Honda will use half the fuel ......and weigh significantly more.
I wouldnt be keen on a hpdi 2 stroke but if its got carbs maybe..........nyaa🤔... Id go for the Honda 😁
 
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airshot

Vice Admiral
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Jul 22, 2008
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Honda builds reliable stuff and have a proven record that you can't argue with....but any future repairs that might be needed are gonna be costly, four strokes are expensive to work on. The Yammy also has a good reputation and will be less costly for any similar repairs needed on the Honda. Tough call really....but as a two stroke fan I would vote for the Yammy because it is 12 years newer.
 
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DeepCMark58A

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Aug 17, 2015
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2,622
I live in Central Minnesota there is no Honda dealer from the Twin Cities to Brainerd. Yamaha there are dealers and they are tough motors, I admit I do love the smell of 2 stroke burning in a boat motor.
 
matt167

matt167

Rear Admiral
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Sep 27, 2012
Messages
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Back in the 90s Honda was THE 4 stroke brand. They are great but the older ones are getting harder to get parts for. The Yam will have everything available you need and a tech willing to work on it should you need it
 
dingbat

dingbat

Supreme Mariner
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Nov 20, 2001
Messages
16,513
Hard to beat a Honda for reliability….done with 2 strokes

You didn’t say how many hours are on each motor. Would take an older motor over one that is worn out or neglected

Buddy is a saltwater fishing guide. Puts 4,000-5,000 hours on a BF250 in before swapping out.
 
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