Johnnyrude or merc?

[rolmops]

I have three 1957 35 horse seahorses and they all run great. I was given a 1967 50 horse merc, fixed it up,and now it runs great too.<br />My question is to all the outboard gurus out there.Which engine would you hang on a 1964 duratech 17 footer?(aluminum)Which one is more dependable? Do you think like me that the seahorses are easier to maintain?Or do you feel that the mercs are easier? Curiously it seems that around Rochester the seahorse parts are very easily obtainable.

 

[WillyBWright]

Re: Johnnyrude or merc?

If I had the choice of which I'd rather work on, Johnson hands down. Merc never gave us insignificant mechanics much consideration when they designed their motors. The simplest things are a real pain to get to on that 500. With the 35s, everything is right there in front of you. Very few hoops to jump thru to perform routine maintenance.

 

[alcan]

Re: Johnnyrude or merc?

I Guess I depends on how much hp you want. The twin 35s might leave you with about fifty hp. Really don't you just love having to worry about this. Bottom line Rolmops is your adicted now, you keep up with this habit those motors will run you out of your own shop. Hec, keep them all,use them all, and only adopt them out to qualified parents. Have fun Rolmops.