2 stroke vs 4 stroke

[KountryboyJP]

I know this will probably cause a heated discussion, but I'm going to ask anyway. 2 stroke or 4 stroke? Ive got an 87 pontoon already running an 83 evinrude 115. There really isn't much price difference between the 2 stroke or the 4 stroke with the same HP in the mercurys I have looked at. All I'm looking for is opinions supported by facts. Any comment would be more then helpful.



Thanks,
John

 

[gddavid]

Re: 2 stroke vs 4 stroke

Each has positive and negative attributes so it really depends on what your requirements are. In what area is the 115 deficient? too old, burning too much gas, more power than you need, not enough power.

Generally four strokes are heavier, more expensive and can be more expensive to repair but they have a better power curve, idle much better, are quiet and don't smell.

If cost is not an issue I would hazard to guess that a four stroke would be a better choice for a pontoon boat.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: 2 stroke vs 4 stroke

I agree with the other poster. Motor Weight would not be an issue with the 'toon. You will want low end power, which a 4 cycle motor will usually have more of. A 2 cycle motor can have higher speed, but not on a 'toon, as they simply do not go too fast. Finally the 4 cycle will have better fuel mileage. If the cost is close, take the 4 cycle motor.