Repower for 18'SF

[baileybutt10]

thanks again, this is an old 18SF. I'm really torn, about the going between the Johnson and Yami/Suzuki. The Johnson is an older work horse that I know runs and is reliable. Friend of mine, had it on an older whaler wants to unload the engine for cheap cheap. Might be leaning that route so I can just get out there and fish. Maybe consider a repower down the road. thoughts?

[Bushwacker]

Originally Posted by baileybutt10

thanks again, this is an old 18SF. I'm really torn, about the going between the Johnson and Yami/Suzuki. The Johnson is an older work horse that I know runs and is reliable. Friend of mine, had it on an older whaler wants to unload the engine for cheap cheap. Might be leaning that route so I can just get out there and fish. Maybe consider a repower down the road. thoughts?

Although I'm biased towards lighter motors, the financial side is easy. Just convert the price difference between the Yam/Zuke and the Johnson into gallons of gas. Then use the gas mileage differential to figure out how many miles or years you'd have run the more efficient motor to save that much gas. If it would take many miles/years for the more efficient motor to pay for itself, it might be hard to justify. But you also need to consider how you'll use the boat and in what sort of seas. If you spend much time in rough seas, the fuel cost may be less important than ride quality, which would point you to the lighter motor. Regardless of what motor you pick, mounting height and prop selection make a big difference in performance. A good stern lifting 4 blade prop and Doelfin or equivalent plus trim tabs that will help you hang on plane at low speed can help partially offset the weight of a heavy motor.