Re-powering 1972 SeaCraft 23'...F300?

[SeaCraft1972]

I will definitely test the boat with an auxiliary tank. Thank you for the suggestion Terry.

Question for Dave and Don and anyone else with experience setting the height of an outboard: Is there any way to determine what length shaft my boat/bracket setup should have?

If I get a new motor i'd prefer not to set it up with a jack plate.

[dave s]

See if this helps.

http://www.dadmarine.com/doc.html

[SeaCraft1972]

I fixed by fuel problem. Turned out that 1 of the new low pressure pumps had a suction leak, it was sucking air into the system and losing the prime. The parts dealer exchanged it, what a headache.
The engine is running great now but i'm still serious about upgrading to a new engine. I now added Suzuki to my possible list. It's a very tough decision. The E-tec, Suzuki and Yamaha are all great engines (300hp) I can't find enough negatives about any of them to justify ruling them out.

Any suggestions or personal experiences with any of these motors will be greatly appreciated. Thanks

[jason555]

I repowered my 23 Center Console with a DF 300 Suzuki, 30 inch shaft with fly by wire technology. Initially 4 years ago I purchased a leftover model and enjoyed the performance and economy as well. It replaced a pair of 225 Johnsons that were put on the boat when new in 1986. The motor is quiet and weighs in at 600 pounds. The boat has no rear squat now and it is a pleasure to drive, the peace and quiet compared to the ole Johnsons is unbelievable. It will run in the low 50's but have a great 3 mpg cruise at 30 mph.
Regarding keeping a good running motor my only opinion is that if it is a low hour motor you can probably sell it and get a good dollar for it now. In a few years there will be repair bills and have a much less depreciated value. My Johnsons were low hour motors and sold literally in one week. If you can sell now and take that money and put it into a new motor, (mine came with a 6 year warranty) you will definitely enjoy the new experience. Sell the old motor on the boat as it is easier to demo and let the buyer pay to derig.
Just another opinion

[Terry England]

Originally Posted by SeaCraft1972

I fixed by fuel problem. The E-tec, Suzuki and Yamaha are all great engines (300hp) I can't find enough negatives about any of them to justify ruling them out.

Any suggestions or personal experiences with any of these motors will be greatly appreciated. Thanks

Seacraft1972, Just r-e-l-a-x. You'll have about a decade to figure out which one you want before you wear that OX-66 out.