F115 - Yamaha or Mercury ?

[hear4128]

I'm about to purchase a new outboard.<br /><br />I have a Campion 505 (17ft) with a 115 Mercury carburated 2 stroke from 1997.<br /><br />I have decided buying either a Yamaha or Mercury F115. These two outboards should have the same powerhead etc. but the Yamaha is in the specification about 90 lbs heavier than the Merc. <br /><br />Do anybody know why the Yam is heavier than the Merc ? Is it the power trim and gearbox that is more strongly built or ? In that case the Yamaha should be better quality and last longer than the Mercury.<br /><br />I'd appreciate any comments or suggestions.

 

[WillyBWright]

Re: F115 - Yamaha or Mercury ?

The current atmosphere in the industry makes me nervous when dealing with Yamaha/Mercury hybrids. Corporate relations between the two companies are strained to say the least. Divorce may be in the offing. Given the current situation, I'd go Yamaha. Getting Yamaha parts for a hybrid may become difficult before long. I happen to work for a dealer that sells both, so for me it's no big deal.<br /><br />Merc took the Japaneese companies to court after alleging Dumping practices. Merc lost, and their supply of Yamaha powerheads will cease once the current contract expires. Parts will probably follow. Yamaha is basically telling Merc where to go. That's far from the first company that Merc has totally alienated, leaving their customers holding the bag with units that are going to become rather "interesting" to get repair parts for. Trade-in values for Mercahas are likely to take a nose dive if they already haven't.