which motor will best suit my needs?

[IDDUKHNTR]

I have a choice of a used 2001 25hp merc 2 stroke or a used 2009 20hp merc 4 stroke. 4 stroke is $400 more. Weights are the same 114LBS. I will be putting this on an 14' alum v hull. My johnson 9.9 just doesn't have enough get up and go. I currently use a electric trolling motor, my wife hates the noise of the 9.9. I also use the boat on the Snake River for duck hunting. Current and wind are factors.. I don't have a lot of experience with outboards...HELP!!!

 

[jbjennings]

Re: which motor will best suit my needs?

I do a lot of duck hunting. My load varies GREATLY. I find 20hp not sufficient for my 15foot duracraft when carrying 2 heavy hunters and lots of gear. I find the 25hp motors to do a good job, and that's what most of the hunters in my area use.
I'm really suprised that the weights of the motors you mentioned are the same. REALLY suprised. Either way, you will discover if you test them both that the 2-stroke will have far greater torque, which is a huge benefit in getting a boat on plane with a load and keeping it there.
WHich one would I get? I would want the 25 2-stroke. BUt condition is everything and a 2001 vs. 2009 for only $400 more would actually make me think about it a little. Question: Does either motor have a warranty and does the 25 have the "automatic" shift in the throttle? I personally don't care for mercs with that feature (I own one). I think you should go to a dealer and test out the 20 4-stroke on a boat at the lake, and also test out a 25 2-stroke before you buy.
JMO,
JBJ

 

[IDDUKHNTR]

Re: which motor will best suit my needs?

Thanks for the input. The 2009 would have a warranty with it. Both have the shifter in the handle.
I just worry that with a 2 stroke I'll wind up wanting to put a trolling motor back on and add another 60 LBS. TO KEEP THE WIFE HAPPY! Decisions .. Decisions...Thanks..

 

[pecheux]

Re: which motor will best suit my needs?

I find both my 2 strokes to run almost as quiet as 4 strokes when idling when lubricated with synthetic oils. Even quieter when using Amsoil Saber at 80:1 (althouh not recommended by most boaters)

 

[speterson1011]

Re: which motor will best suit my needs?

I used to have a 2001 25hp merc 2 stroke on my 15' jon boat. Solid motor. Never gave me any problems and performed great. Of course I kept it very well maintained. Just thought I'd share, I had great use out of this motor. I bought it in 06 with 80 hours on it and probably over doubled the hours.

 

[richg99]

Re: which motor will best suit my needs?

Just sold a 25 Merc 2004 2 cycle along with my boat. When I bought it, I was SHOCKED at how quiet it was when running. I have to flush my engines in the driveway to clear the saltwater out of them. I could run that motor in the driveway and not even bother the neighbors.

Of course, I've never heard the sounds from a 25 4 cycle, so I have no direct comparison.

Lots more pep and power and generally a lot lighter. I, too, am very surprised about the lack of a weight differential between your two choices. Rich

 

[pecheux]

Re: which motor will best suit my needs?

richg99. Went out fishing with a buddy who owned a 50 or 60 hp Evinrude 4 strokes (pre-etec) and actualy when idling I could not tell if it was running or shut off.

 

[Whoopbass]

Re: which motor will best suit my needs?

If your wife is with you a lot then get the 4-stroke and make her happy unless you would rather listen to the motor then your wife when running.
Top end difference between those motors is probably only a few mph's but the 25 will have more torque to push heavy loads.
If the price wasn't too bad then I would get the 4-stroke because they are quiet, its practically new and besides that 20 would have plenty of power for your needs.
If you want a low maintenance motor that you can neglect and it will still fire up then get the 2-stroke.

 

[IDDUKHNTR]

Re: which motor will best suit my needs?

Gentlemen, Thank you for your input. I went on another direction, so to speak. I found a 25 HP 2 stroke johnson electric start for less money yet. It is a 2002. I have the motor mounted on the boat and ready for action.
I do have a question though, anybody know where the rich/lean adjustment is?? My 9.9 had it on the side. Looking at the carb, there is a brass fitting with a screw inside on the top. Is this the rich/lean adjustment??
The wife will have to ENDURE.....Thanks...

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: which motor will best suit my needs?

for wilderness use, i'd agree with the 2 stroke.

Find an owner's manual but on newer motors you don't mess with the rich/lean like the old ones