Which boat motor to get?

[stigger88]

Hi, I've about had it with older motors that have to be fixed constantly to keep running. I still like working on them, but I don't like the unreliability factor. I'm looking to get a new motor for my 14ft lund, was thinkin about 10-15hp. don't need anything bigger than 15hp for my lake.

Not sure about if I want to go 4 stroke or 2 stroke. I know 4 stroke seems nicer. Also, not sure what make is best. I know people will have a lot of different opinions, just like how people are huge ford lovers, or chevy lovers, or whatever.

Just lookin to get peoples honest opinion. What's easy to do general maint. on and typically lasts for a long time (10+years)

THanks

 

[stigger88]

Re: Which boat motor to get?

also, is there generally a better time to buy? winter? or doesn't it matter?

 

[RotaryRacer]

Re: Which boat motor to get?

If you are buying new you are pretty much limited to 4-stroke in that size range. In fact I think the only 2-stroke 15 hp currently on the market is the Evinrude e-tec 15 H.O. which is actually a detuned 30/25 and weighs a whopping 180 lbs.

If you are buying used it is hard to beat a 2-stroke 15HP OMC (Johnson/Evinrude) as made up until 2001. If that is too old you might be able to find a 2-stroke Yamaha that is newer, otherwise it will be a 4-strokes only.

 

[airshot]

Re: Which boat motor to get?

Not sure what your definition of old is.... motors from the 50-60's are cantankerous, 70-80's better but showing age because they do not have the latest upgrades, motors in the later 90's and early 2000 are very good. Small motors have not seen much upgrade other than going to 4 stroke. Personally I prefer 2 stroke, had a 94 Evinrude 15 hp and it was great, always started on 2nd pull, never first or third, always second. 4 strokes are much heavier, more costly but more fuel efficient. 2 strokes get up to speed more quickly and even though they use more fuel, on a smaller motor such as a 15 hp that fuel difference is very small. 2 strokes have much less maintainence, every few years drop in a new set of plugs and a water pump impellor and your good. Keep some fuel stabilizer mixed in with gas and always run fuel out of carb after use and they will run forever.