US vs. Japan

[TXredfish]

I'm looking for a new outboard 25hp for my aluminum v-hull boat. But I'm stuck with the problem of choosing between American (Mercury) vs. Japanese (Yahama, Suzuki, Honda). I was set on Merc but friends and local boat dealers told me US outboards are inferior to their Jap counterparts and to lean towards a Jap. I had no idea there was much discontent for Mercs. I am focusing on hp and reliablity. Also this motor will be used for fishing the saltwater shallow flats of TX.

 

[DJ]

Re: US vs. Japan

TXredfish,<br /><br />There is so much cross dealing in the industry, who really knows what came from where.<br /><br />I'll tell you this, I WILL NOT buy from a dealer that bashes another product.<br /><br />If they can't tell you why theirs is better without runing down the comp. they are lacking in their product knowledge.

 

[NathanY]

Re: US vs. Japan

If I have said it once I have said it a thousand times, All new outboards are good motors. The only diference in used outboards is the care in which they were taken when they were new.

 

[Jack Shellac]

Re: US vs. Japan

For mixed use in both salt and fresh water, I believe I would go with the Yamaha. Reliability, long life and smooth performance would be my reasons. I believe that competition from the Japanese have made both our autos and boat motors better over the last years. I've been a lifelong owner of OMC motors myself, but have to say the the Yamaha is better.

 

[Forktail]

Re: US vs. Japan

"I'm stuck with the problem of choosing between American (Mercury) vs. Japanese (Yahama, Suzuki, Honda)."<br /><br />"I am focusing on hp and reliablity"<br /><br />Hmmm. Reliability or patriotism? Patriotism or reliability? <br /><br />1. Make up your mind on what's more important....patriotism or returning home from 'ole man sea's grip safely.<br /><br />2. Then do your research based on unbiased published information, price, dealerships, service, parts availability, features, warranty, and overall ownership happiness.<br /><br />3. Buy and be satisfied with your decision.<br /><br />BTW, Merc makes a 30 hp that is fuel injected.

 

[dmessy]

Re: US vs. Japan

Go with the best deal with your local dealer. All the outboards you mentioned work great,new, so after the sale, service is what counts. I got a 1969 20 HP Merc (used primarily in the salt)that still runs strong and I can get parts virtually anywhere for it.<br />Only time will tell and Mercury has been making small motors for a looong time.

 

[RJS]

Re: US vs. Japan

I think all outboard manufacturers have good products. I think it is true that the Japanese manufacturers do a better job at introducing new technologies. They don't use the consumer to beta-test their products. THe OMC Ficht engine is a good example. The upcomming high HP Merc 4-strokes with supercharging or turbocharging will likely have similar problems

 

[brent suzkui wyble j16]

Re: US vs. Japan

txredfish, ive had johnson 10, mecr 7.5, both good outboards, i now have a suz.15 4 stroke, runs strong, quite, i question the 3gal gas tank that came with it, (the others had 6gal)would that be big enuff? the thing uses allmost NO gas. runs great!

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: US vs. Japan

Yeah, don't get one of those OMC(Bomb)American products. They ALL leave you at the mercy of old man sea! Yamaha or Suzuki are the only ones that will get you back. Gospel Truth and Fact!!!

 

[Forktail]

Re: US vs. Japan

"Yeah, don't get one of those OMC(Bomb)American products. They ALL leave you at the mercy of old man sea! Yamaha or Suzuki are the only ones that will get you back. Gospel Truth and Fact!!!"<br /><br />Cute Rick. Not sure what your point is? <br /><br />There is no OMC. They are dead.<br /><br />Bombardier is not "American".<br /><br />Suzuki supplies Bombardier all their 4-strokes....a very large segment of what they are now selling.<br /><br />In this day and age of free trade, anyone who buys an outboard soley based on patriotism rather than quality and reputation of the product should have their head examined. Especially considering what they cost. And especially considering what the consequences of a lesser product can be out on the open ocean.<br /><br />Lately there have been several threads asking actual owners about the reliability of Bombardier's improved Fichts. But I haven't seen many responses (if any). And that's the problem. Many people aren't sure.