Looking for a new boat

[AviatorJim]

I've just sold my 16 ft runabout with a Mercruiser 3.0, carburetted. I'm looking for something newer with a 4 stroke, fuel injected outboard. I'm looking for a boat in the 13 to 17 foot range with 75 - 100 hp. It will be used mostly on inland lakes and coastal rivers. I still have my Bertram 25 with the twin Mercruisers for those trips off the coast fishing.
What years and models have the 4 stroke/fuel inj? Any that you recommend or not recommend?
Thanks.
--Jim
Warner Robin GA

 

[pckeen]

That's a broad question....many motors over the past decade have EFI, and in some years, the outboard companies had both EFI and carb models. The newer the motor you are looking at, the more likely you will be to find an EFI model.

 

[jbcurt00]

13ft VS 17ft is a huge difference, no matter the style of boat, and unless you're 15ft + I don't think you'll reach the min requested HP rating of 75hp......

 

[Triangleboater]

Will you be fishing, water sports, cruising? Do you want fiberglass or tin? give us a little more detail and we would be happy to help you search.

 

[Brian 26]

Back around the early 2000s FI on an outboard motor was very expensive, like a $4k upgrade so very few have them. They are more common in newer motors. You'll have to look at each boat individually, if you're shopping on craigslist be prepared for the seller to answer with "I don't know" - which usually means it carburated.

 

[AviatorJim]

I'll be sticking with a glass boat. I just need to downsize to something my wife (whose only experience with boats has been with me) and mom will be able to handle. I like the 13' Whalers, but I think in the long run that will be a little too small. I'm pretty flexible with what I get since I still have my Bertram for when I want to go out.
I think I'll stick to a 2000 or newer from one of the major manufacturers.
Many thanks.
--Jim