' 75 Johnson 9.9 vs. '12 Merc 9.9

[Cokeferrari]

Hey guys...just bought a new 14' tracker Jon boat. Debating between a 1975 9.9 Johnson 2 stroke and a new Mercury 4 stroke. I don't have a trailer so all my transportation will be done in the back of my pick up bed or in the cab. Any one have any experience transporting these motors? I know the 4 strokes are a bit heavier and you have to be more careful with them in transport but I like the idea of a new motor. However, the '75 Johnson is a lot cheaper and it probably could take more of a beating through transport. Is it realistic to transport these motors like this, considering weight and storage? Any opinions and help would be greatly appreciated. I should mention that I will mostly be unloading and loading myself.

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: ' 75 Johnson 9.9 vs. '12 Merc 9.9

Welcome to iboats.

You will get MUCH better performance from the 4 stroke since it is newer technology.

There are lakes that are on the path to ban the old 2 strokes and if it was in the budget........ I would go new 4 stroke. 85 lbs is not bad at all.

 

[Texasmark]

Re: ' 75 Johnson 9.9 vs. '12 Merc 9.9

'75 smells of "brake hp" i.e. power head rated, not prop rated as they are today.....that amounts to 10-15% more available hp for the same decal on the side of the engine.

On transporting I know this. Small motors tend to get transported on their side and if your gear shift lever is on the side, it can become damaged form the owner not cushioning the engine during transport. BTDT On whether or not 4 strokes transport any easier than a 2 stroke, have no idea. Never owned one.

Mark

Mark

 

[Cokeferrari]

Re: ' 75 Johnson 9.9 vs. '12 Merc 9.9

Thanks for the insight guys. I just did a test lift on a hundred pound crate here at work....think I can handle that 85# Merc. Plus I like the sound of a warranty with a new motor.

 

[JB]

Re: ' 75 Johnson 9.9 vs. '12 Merc 9.9

I agree with the above suggestions. Be VERY sure that you position that 4 stroke exactly as the manual says for transport. Lay it on the wrong side and it is curtains.