Best Outboard Power for a 76 23'

[thedog]

I have a pair of 150 etecs on my 23, flat out I run 38knts after I switched to four blade props , this is a bit slower than the 3 blades I used to have on it
top speed with the 3 blades was 46knts but the engines were only turning 5000 rpm. working too hard
I like the efficiency of the engines they hardly burn any fuel, total last season
was 3-1/2 to 4 gallons per hour, running trolling ect. with no problems
I understand that a single 250 would do the same as I do with the twins
less weight on the back end,

[peterb]

With my twin 200 HP OX66's I went to four blades as well. Like one of the other posters my WOT dropped by close to 10 MPH. However, I get a much better ride (more stern lift)

Ppeter

[eggsuckindog]

The 300 Yamaha is problematic, they don't blow up but have issues with oil consumption and plugs, I have a friend that has twins. He has helped the plugs by switching oil. But they had an oil pump recall and it still uses alot.
The F225 is a very weak engine, the 250 apparently has a variable valve timing thats much better, the 225 does not, that year Yamaha does have a serious corrision issue with the exhaust plate - very expensive 3K and no help from them. Should be inspected certainly before purchase, well known now on THT.

The 250/300 is a perfect fit, for our boats, max power to weight ration although none are light these days. Just whatever you can find a deal on.