Evinrude 4.5 to Johnson 9.9

[pleasantman]

I have an Evinrude 4.5hp outboard. I am looking to upgrade to a Mercury 7.5hp or a Johnson 9.9hp. I have a 14 foot V-Hull Jon boat. This is my first boat and 2nd boat motor purchase . Just looking for a little advice on which would be the best motor and what the biggest difference between the motors would be?

 

[flyingscott]

I would choose the 9.9 10 times out of 10. The 9.9 will be stronger running motor with more parts availability. Stay away from the evinrude 9.9/15s from 74-76.
​​That being said there is nothing wrong with the 7.5 merc. But the 9.9 is overall a better motor.

 

[tpenfield]

14 foot boat might be a bit much for only 7.5 hp. I have a 1969 Merc 7.5 and a 1980 Johnson 4.5. I like the Merc better overall. Although I favor Mercury, the 9.9 hp would be a better power match.

 

[Scott Danforth]

FWIW, the Merc 7.5 is a 9.8 with a smaller carb. the 9.8 just spun a little higher RPM

so either the 7.5 or 9.9 your choice.

 

[racerone]

The 7.5 COMET block has smaller intake ports than the 9.8 block !

 

[Royce Brown]

I run a 6HP Johnson on my 14' Starcraft. Sure I'd like a bit more on the high end with a 7.5 or 9.9 but the 6 does a good job for my needs, mostly slow trolling. I do keep my eyes open on craigslist for any potential upgrades.

 

[Starboardlean]

I will politely disagree with the "stay away from 74-76. Mine has been very reliable. Not the fastest, but that is not a priority. I went thru ignition system when I purchased. Parts are plentiful and cheap