What is the best outboard, Honda, Yamaha, Mercury?

Outclaws · #1 07-08-2007, 06:27 PM

I'm looking to repower my 20 foot center console SeaCraft. I think 150 hp should do nice. What would be the lowest hp to go with? 175 should be the max. Should it have carborators or DI ? The fuel additives are a big proublem. I'm looking at a 2003 Mercury 150 xr6 2 stroke, any good?
Also does anyone know what the fuel tanks are made out of, I was told if it's fiberglass get rid of it. Any information would be great. Thanks

Blue197320 · #2 07-08-2007, 07:28 PM

i had a 150 evinrude and it was plenty of motor for the boat. but it was tired so i repowered with a 200 merc. havent gotten that one dialed in yet cuz it has an overheating problem. my fuel tank is aluminum and its 48 gallons..

Outclaws · #3 07-08-2007, 08:20 PM

Thanks for the information. Is your boat still covered by insurance if something happens, because the boat is only suppose to have a max hp of 175? I see a lot of guys put these big engines on these small boats. I'll go with something between 115 to 150 hp. I see the newer engine are rated at the prop. Thanks again.

bunderwood · #4 07-08-2007, 08:57 PM

I have a 150 as well and I plan on going with a 200 when I repower...

Fr. Frank · #5 07-08-2007, 09:16 PM

Check with your insurance company regarding the hp limit for your boat. I have a 1972 20' Seafari OB model with an very odd original sticker that says Max HP: 240.
I have a 150 Merc that pushes it to 50 mph lightly loaded, and cruises at 34 heavily loaded. How much faster do you need?

Michael Vezzosi · #6 07-08-2007, 09:23 PM

I am running a carbed 1999 Johnson 175, after a 1980 something 200 Black Max. Merc. was rigged to explode as I purchased her back in 1995. Pretty sure I'm breaking 50 with a light load. Sucks for trolling down wind but I would not try a 4 stroke on my '79 MA. Very happy with the 175. Part II.

NoBones · #7 07-08-2007, 10:32 PM

My 1970 SF was rated for 225HP. At todays standards that would be a rocket!! I currently run a carbed (tricked -out)
1998 200 HP Merc. I carry 80 gallons in a custom aluminum tank. Top speed with a light load is 62 mph. It gets a little spooky above 55 mph, it starts to chine walk on the trim tabs, by the way which are 12 x 24 Bennett's.
I have friends that have 175HP and they are more then satisified. A 150HP at todays standards would be more than sufficient.
Good Luck, Ken

joseeli8797 · #8 07-10-2007, 10:13 PM

[QUOTE]
I currently run a carbed (tricked -out)
1998 200 HP Merc. Top speed with a light load is 62 mph. [QUOTE]
. what prop you runnin there no bones

joseeli8797 · #9 07-10-2007, 10:18 PM

I might be buying a Mirage plus 21 pitch, this week end I will be water testing the boat and borrowing that same prop to try out.

NoBones · #10 07-10-2007, 11:30 PM

[QUOTE]
[QUOTE]
I currently run a carbed (tricked -out)
1998 200 HP Merc. Top speed with a light load is 62 mph.

Quote:

. what prop you runnin there no bones

21 inch LaserII with a heavy rake.
The engine was new and Second Effort, Bob's Machine, and
a Factory Mercury guru all had a hand in tweaking her up.
Ken