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Just re-powered my 2004 Boston Whaler Dauntless 160 with one of the new Mercury 115 four stroke in late May 2014. When I first ordered the motor well over a month ago, my local dealer didn't know anything about a new version. A week later, they told me the motors were out of stock and I was going to get the latest model as soon as they could get there hands on one. In short, I was lucky to get a new model and would have been very disappointed if I had re-powered with last year's heavier model, especially on a smaller boat like my 160.

Sold my 2004 90 hp two stroke for $1,800 cash and kept my Trophy Plus stainless four blade propeller for use on the new motor My local dealer applied the $825 rebate on the spot, which taken together helped bring the overall cost down. I wouldn't say the decision was easy, given the expense, but after considering trading in my Whaler for several possible new boats, realized I really loved my Dauntless and simply wanted a four stroke with a little more power. I considered buying a new Dauntless 170, but couldn't rationalize the insane price.

Took the boat out on Mobile Bay on Saturday morning, before the rain hit. Conditions were okay but not great, with a good southeasterly breeze and a light to moderate chop. In summary, we felt like we were driving a completely new boat. The boat jumped out of the hole, much quicker than my old 90hp, and I didn't even try to check the top speed, given the conditions. Pulled my son and one of his pals on a tube and they went airborne a couple of times. The motor was incredibly quiet, which pleased my wife, and sounded a bit like a BMW motorcycle (a tight purr) when operating at high speed.

The dealer mounted the motor second hole from the top. Not a whole lot of trim range in the above conditions, especially when the chop moved from light to moderate, before experiencing some porpoising. Will probably need to experiment with the height of the motor, based on comments from other folks on this website.

The bottom line: My whaler is a keeper - the boat looks almost new - and the new engine has reignited my enthusiasm. Sure, I probably wouldn't get my money back if I tried to sell the package, but I have no intention of selling and expect to wear out myself before the boat and motor are done. I'll provide some updates over the Summer as I gain more experience with the new set-up.