Suzuki 30hp 4-stroke or 2 stroke dilemma ?

[panamapaul]

I’m debating with myself over what motor (4-stroke or 2-stroke) to put on my little Boston Whaler 15 foot Sport boat…? (fresh & saltwater use) What are some of the real world factors in the actual differences in economy, maintenance, & weight between these two motors? Do the newer 4-strokes really run and run and run like they claim they do and is the gas economy significantly different between the two…? I can swallow the difference in price of the 4-stroke over the 2-stroke if, that’s if the benefits are substantial enough. Can anyone give me some firsthand experience they may have from when they went from one motor to another? Anyone’s input is much appreciated.

 

[brownies]

Re: Suzuki 30hp 4-stroke or 2 stroke dilemma…?

For a performance bass boat, I'd say 2 stroke.<br />For a smaller, more recreation/family oriented boat, I'd rather have a 4 stroke.<br /> I'm not sure where to draw that line though. Probably matter of personal preference.<br /> I like the "thought" of the 4 stroke being more reliable and thrifty. (although, that's probably just a that, a "thought").<br /> Most any answer you get will be opinion. Both have pro's and con's of which can be debated either way.<br /> There is an article in one of the latest issues of Bassin' (or a like publication). According to their research from talking to companies that actually sell boat/motor packages.....The observations are as follows:<br /> Seems everybody jumped on the "4 stroke bandwagon / latest craze" a few years back. NOW, many of the Tournament users are switching back to 2 stroke due to high performance reasons, while The 4 strokes are still good sellers for the recreational market.<br /> I have a 98 Skeeter with a 150 2 stroke. If I needed another motor...4 stroke wouldn't even be a consideration.<br /> If this boat was steel or aluminum (less performance oriented hull). I'd have a 4 stroke on it.

 

[panamapaul]

Re: Suzuki 30hp 4-stroke or 2 stroke dilemma…?

This boat is going to be strictly recreational and a variety of those; leisure fishing, diving, camping and such. I defiantly don’t need the capability to blast off to my next fishing spot at mach I or am I much concerned about blasting out of the hole onto plane in nothing flat. I do realize most feedback will be opinions but with enough of those I think I can probable put together my own of what’s best for my situation and needs. I am leaning towards the 4-stroke at the moment but only slightly!

 

[JB]

Re: Suzuki 30hp 4-stroke or 2 stroke dilemma…?

Thirty HP is pretty small for the Boston Whaler Sport 15, Paul. It is rated for 70hp.<br /><br />My rule of thumb is at least 70% of the rated hp for satisfactory performance. That would call for 50hp, at least.<br /><br />For your applications I would definitely go for the Suzi DF50 four stroke.<br /><br />Only the DFI and E-Tec 2 strokes can compete in economy and quietness with the 4 strokes, and they weigh and cost about as much. Further, I don't think there are any DFI or E-Tec engines available in 50hp.

 

[rodbolt]

Re: Suzuki 30hp 4-stroke or 2 stroke dilemma…?

and the nice thing is in 30 some odd tears of playing with ths for a living I have seen 2 2 stokes wear out.<br /> the rest died the normal horrible lack of maint death. most dead four strokes I see die the same death. if given a choice of changing the engine oil once a year or changing the water pump tstats and pressure control parts I will leave the oil alone.<br /> look at almost everypost here and the replies posted from the cure.<br /> 80% are probably trash/water in the fuel and the rest are mostly overheat/water injestion issues.<br /> myself I would go with a 60 or 70 Hp motor on the back. the good old 3cyl yamaha two stroke is an excellent low maint motor. the 4 strokes require maint its just a bit different than a 2 stroke. most all are very reliable engines if mounted correctly with the correct OEM parts and serviced exactly like the book says not just when something broke.<br /> but from experience I can tell you a 30 Hp on a 15ft whaler is a mutt with one person and worse with 2.a 30Hp on a 13 whaler is marginal. trust the advice and go with at least 50Hp with trim and tilt at a minimum and add the tachometer package with whatever rig you choose. myself I would go with a 70Hp 2stroke or 4 stroke. <br /> just because ya have the extra ponies does not mean you must use them but if you need them they are there. you will find that at cruise with a 70 at about 25Mph or so you will burn about the same amount of gas than with that 30 at WOT trying to keep it on plane.