what size motor

[hiebs]

I'm looking for some input....here's my situation..I've got a 14ft duckhunt/fishing boat (aluminum). my motor went so I'm looking into a new motor...my old motor was a '63 gale 15hp..<br />the boat will take a 25hp. I'm looking at a 15hp merc bigfoot (4 stroke ) and a 25hp merc (2 stroke ) which motor would you recomend...I've heard 4 strokes are a bit hard to start in the cold...is this true?? thanks for your help !!

 

[DJ]

Re: what size motor

hiebs,<br /><br />I would go with the higher HP engine.<br /><br />Just because you have it, doesn't mean you have to use it. I would venture to guess that the weights are similar.

 

[steelespike]

Re: what size motor

Im not sure of the purpose of a big foot but I<br />dont think it is appropriate for your boat.<br /> I fully agree with DJ19 go for the horsepower.

 

[sony2001]

Re: what size motor

Sorry guys I disagree. The 25 merc is too much power. The 15 is enough and its a 4 stroke. The resale value of the 15 will be higher. The 15 is quieter and strong. In 10 years the 25 will be thought of as a polluter on some lakes.

 

[Boatist]

Re: what size motor

Heibs<br />I would suggest you also look at a new light weight 20HP 4 stroke by Honda. Just came out the end of last year. Wieghts 103 lb. Can get in short, long or extra long shaft. Electric start or manual.

 

[steelespike]

Re: what size motor

I dont know how 25 would be too much on a boat rated for 25. as with any boat if driven safely<br /> there is no problem.<br /> I drive pretty conservetively and every boat <br />Ive ever had at some point I have wished I had more power.Im not saying always run max rating<br />just be aware you will come up short at some point<br /> so go closer to the max rating.

 

[JerseyJim]

Re: what size motor

i would recommend the 4 stroke as well for resale value if anything. however dont discount the resale value of a higher HP motor, either. <br /><br />as for the cold starting of a 4 stroke...i dont know where you heard that, but the 4 strokes i have been involved with have ALWAYS started on the first or second pull.

 

[Spidybot]

Re: what size motor

As much as I like my 2-stroke I have to accept the fact the 4-stroke is the future - by all facts we know today.<br /><br />Being in the 115hp range a new 4-stroke is not a thing you buy just because of this, but in the event of a due replacement...<br /><br />In use the 4-stroke offers better idle, less smoke and less noise and vibration. For trolling this makes a big difference.<br /><br />Most experience better mpg, too.