1976 23 Sceptre I/O repower?

[bherlong]

New to the board here. Have searched and found answers to many questions! What a great source of info!! My question regards a 1976 23 Sceptre I/O. I would like to put twin 140 hp Suzuki four strokes on a bracket on her. However, before proceeding I am open to other comments or experiences. If necessary, I will leave the I/O and simply replace with all new (but I love the four strokes), OR maybe a single 250 hp Suzuki four stroke on a bracket. Would like to venture up to 40nm offshore, and take frequent trips to the Bahamas from FL (about 70nm across from Stuart, less from further S). I am perfectly happy w/ 25kt cruise. I am a die hard fisherman and prefer trolling in blue water. Any advice on this important decision is appreciated! Thanks!

[ocuyler]

Without a doubt, I would consider Mercruisers diesel I/O options for fuel consuption, dependability, trolling, range and resale value.

[FELLOW-SHIP]

If you are taking long trips to the Bahamas and wanting to go with outboards than those twin 140 on a flotation bracket would be a great choice. I would redo the transom first and then consider the gas tank while you are at it.
But than again if it is Just a matter of replacing power for a quicker fix I like Otto’s thoughts.


FellowShip
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Just for the Grins

[nestorpr]

Don't forget to look at the Volvo D3 diesel I/O also, lots of power with very little weight.

[RUSTYNTABATHA]

FOUR STROKES ARE GREAT BUT THE FUEL EFF IS THERE W 2 STROKES ALSO YAM HPDI AND MERC OPTI WEIGH LESS AND ON A BRACKET THE WEIGHT IS A FACTOR BUT THE 4 STROKES ARE FANTASTICLY QUIET YOUCAN ACTUALY HER THE WATER ON THE HULL WHEN RUNNIG I AM HANGING 135 MERC OPTIS ON MY SCEPTER AND THERE IS A PAIR OF 150 OPTIS ON EBAY RIGHT NOW THE PRICE IS OK BUT I THINK THEY SHOULD BE ALITTLE LOWER