Narrowing down the choices......

[kozanecki01]

I thank all who gave input into assisting me in a pontoon boat. Now, I have to think about powering the thing. I think my budget will keep me in the 60-75 hp ballpark. Maybe a 50-60 hp 4 stroke or a 75-90 two stroke. Below are the current promotions from most of the major brands. What looks good to you guys and which ones should I draw my attention to. This motor will be on a 20 foot pontoon used for cruising and pulling small kids on a tube. Thanks for your comments and opinions, they are always appreciated.<br /><br />Honda: 4 stroke<br />40-50hp 200 cash back or 300 in accessories<br />75-90hp 300 cash back or 500 in accessories<br />I'm not sure my budget will support the Honda<br /><br />Mercury:<br />Four strokes 40-225 hp 5 years of coverage<br />Two stroke carb. 40-125hp 3 years plus 100/150 cash back<br /><br />Johnson/Evinrude:<br />5 years total coverage or 160-900 cash back<br /><br />Suzuki:<br />Four stroke 40-50hp 6 years coverage or 200 cash back<br />60-70 hp 6 years coverage or 300 cash back<br /><br />Yamaha:<br />3 years extended warranty on the four strokes<br />total of 5 years<br />or a total of 3 years on the two strokes.

 

[kozanecki01]

Re: Narrowing down the choices......

Some of the Yamaha two strokes have the 5 year extended deal as well.

 

[Forktail]

Re: Narrowing down the choices......

The proven Yamaha T60 is specifically designed as a true High-Thrust outboard for pontoon boat applications. Special gearcase and prop, 4-cylinder, 4-stroke, 3-star ultra low CARB rated, and only about 250 lbs.<br /><br />Another good choice would be the Suzuki DF60. It's also a 4-cylinder, with the advantages of EFI. But it's a little heavier at 335 lbs.<br /><br />Good luck.

 

[BillP]

Re: Narrowing down the choices......

My ptoon boat has the mariner/merc 50hp 4 stroke with standard gearcase and is all the motor I need. It's been a good motor even though I don't like mercs. After 7+ yrs of use I would buy the same hp again. However, it may be a good idea to check the high thrust version gear ratios to see how they affect speed. I have no clue if they would push slower or faster due to bigger props (gut says slower).

 

[kozanecki01]

Re: Narrowing down the choices......

Would that 50hp 4 stroke be able to pull samll kids on a tube?

 

[Knightgang]

Re: Narrowing down the choices......

Kozman,<br />Add one other variable to the equation. Look at your dealer network and service ability.<br /><br />At first glance, I would look at the Suzuki (would be the same as a Johnson 4-stroke) because of the 6 year coverage. But if your dealer network can't service you well, it does not good.<br /><br />I have no experience with a Honda, but they are all really good motors. Take the advice many others have given and get as much HP as you can afford with a brand that will give you top quality dealer service (when you need it, not 6 months later). If it were me, and because of a poor Suzuki network in my area, i would have to go with Yamaha, we have many Yammie dealers around here, and they are proven engines.<br /><br />I have an older Suzuki 2 stroke and I like it very much, but I work on it and not the dealer.<br /><br />Good luck and let us know what you decide.

 

[seahorse5]

Re: Narrowing down the choices......

Kozman,<br /><br />The Johnson outboards have a 5 year warranty, but the Evinrudes have a 7 year warranty.

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: Narrowing down the choices......

If you go with a Merc, this would be the one I would get. Personally, I prefer the OMC products. Dealer support is the important thing, as that is where you have to deal with in the future.<br /><br />bigfoot

 

[butlp]

Re: Narrowing down the choices......

Kozman,<br /><br />I have a 2001 50 hp Mercury EFI Bigfoot on my 22’. It has about 95 hours and has not missed a beat, is very quite and always starts at the first turn of the key. It will push the 22’ at 19 mph WOT which is plenty for kids tubing.<br />I certainly agree that your local dealer is an important factor in you purchase decision!

 

[OBJ]

Re: Narrowing down the choices......

Kozman...this is just my 2 cents worth.....<br /><br />You probably will be happy with what ever choice you make. As some of the guys already posted, look into the dealer and see what kind of service you can expect. As rick said, the dealer is the one you will have to deal with in the future.<br /><br />And...I'm a Johnny/Rude person myself.<br /><br />Good Luck in your decision!

 

[TPD211]

Re: Narrowing down the choices......

Kozman,<br /><br />I know the boat may be here in Tavares part of the year. We have all the major dealers in the area that give good service from what I hear.<br />Evinrude/Johnson at www.trianglemarinecenter.com <br />Mercury down the street from them at Dead River Marina<br />Yamaha, Honda in the next town, 15-25 minute drive.<br />Suzuki just up the street plus local marine wrenches.<br /><br />Central Florida has lots of lakes and boats.