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I know this topic has been discussed ad nauseam, but I was hoping to get some thoughts from the crowd on repower suggestions for my specific applications. I have a 1969 13' "custom", boat has a super sport interior layout. My baby, the 1985 merc 50 inline 4 cyl is giving me poor compression on cyl 3 and I've decided against trying to rebuild something so old with corrosion and no power tilt/trim.
I have my transom built up to accept a 20" shaft. I'm between the Suzuki 30hp or the Tohatsu 40hp. I can order the Suzuki directly to my door for ~$5k while the Tohatsu 40 must be installed by a dealer. Found someone local willing to do a "bare bones" install for ~$8k. I'm leaning towards the 40 because the super sport interior adds significant weight to the boat, I want the option to ski (I dont currently but might in the future) and I've heard the 30 doesn't do well with 4 adults on board. I normally run with 1-2 adults, but want the option to have more power with 4 adults when I do have the extra weight. The 40 weighs ~209lbs while the 30 is 155lbs and I would like to keep the weight down, thats why I am even really considering the 30 in the first place. I've also heard that you can swap out the ECU on the MFS40 with a 50hp ecu, as the blocks are identical. Don't think I'd ever need that much power, but certainly a fun (dangerous) idea.
I'm looking to keep the boat at a 30+ mph top speed, so any prop recommendations are helpful. I know this will depend on what motor I go with, but I am leaning towards the 40 with a 3 blade SS prop 11-13 pitch? Any insights there are greatly appreciated.
I really appreciate the help and any insight from anyone with either of these motors on their rig.
Repowers do not have any payback so spending less is always wise.
Even with all your details, saving 3K is compelling.
Props:
Suzuki DF30a - Suzuki 9.25x11” pitch
Tohatsu 40 -
From a post back in '18
With a WOT of 5850, 1.85 gear ratio, target speed of 32 (based on 40hp), 5% slip, the prop calculator is showing 11" of pitch. In stainless steel, that is part # PT4050P11
Edited by Phil T on 10/01/21 - 7:38 AM
1992 Outrage 17 I
2019 E-TEC 90, Viper 17 2+
2018 Load Rite Elite 18280096VT
Thanks Phil, I appreciate the insight as always. Hoping whatever I go with will last me another ~30 seasons so the extra $100/year (over 30) makes sense to get a bit more hp. Am I way off in thinking a new outboard will last that long with proper service and light use (20-50 hrs/season)?
