4-cycle O/B 125-175 hp '95 to '00; best and worst models?

[agrazela]

I will be in the market for a boat and motor in the next year or so. I envision a 18' to 20' center console having a 4-cycle outboard, about 150 hp (actually, let's say a range between 125 and 175 hp).<br /><br />Not being made of money, I will be looking for something used, probably in the year range about 1995 to 2000.<br /><br />I really am not up to date on 4-cycle outboards. Indeed, I have only ever owned 2-cycles, and then never anything newer than 20-some years old.<br /><br />When I go looking, what models of 4-cycle outboard in that hp range and year range have proven themselves worthy...or unworthy?<br /><br />I am looking for good reliability, ease to work on, whether there are any known problems, parts and service easy to get and comparatively less expensive, etc. Comparative fuel usage is a distant second consideration, as I am sure that, hp for hp, even the most thirsty 4-cycle will put any 2-cycle I have owned to shame.<br /><br />I am looking for very specific info and pro/con reasons about any particular model/year/hp, so please no responses like "anything by 'brand X' is great/s*cks"<br /><br />Thanks

 

[walleyehed]

Re: 4-cycle O/B 125-175 hp '95 to '00; best and worst models?

There aren't alot of choices in that HP range of those years......<br />I think the Susuki/Johnson 140 4-stroke has been as good as it gets-Not trying to name "Brand-X", but if you want good info, a guys gotta tell ya which one. Lots of dealer network, parts availability.<br />I don't recall what Honda had in those years, but some of the 4-stroke gurus might. <br />Yamaha came out with (I believe) the first 150 4 stroke just this year (2004 Model).

 

[imported_JD__]

Re: 4-cycle O/B 125-175 hp '95 to '00; best and worst models?

agrazela,<br />I purchased a 2004 Johnson 140 4-stroke (Suzuki)back in February for my 18 ft. aluminum (1400 #) bass-type boat.Boat runs high 40's low 50's. I have 145 hours on it and never had a minutes trouble. Starts first time, every time, idles smooth. Was hoping for a little more power but it was around $2,500 - $3,000 less than either the Honda or Yamaha 150 4-strokes. I gave up some hp & mph to save a lot of cash. Seems like a solid little engine.<br />JD