Posted by Phil T on 03/30/08 - 8:43 AM
#3
Let me welcome you to WC.
Could you explain your statement:
I don't want to pay a lot for an engine that you thow away after 5 years
I know dozens of boat owners who own 1980-1990 boats with same year engines with hundreds of engine hours in salt water so your statement appears opposite of my observation. My guess on a marine outboard engine life-cycle is 700-1000 engine hours if maintained. At 50 hours a year, that is a long time.
While the maximum horsepower for your Nauset is 90 hp, I see many Nausets with a 70 horsepower 2 strokes. If you prefer a 4 stroke, a 50-60 hp 4 stroke would weigh about the same. Given the age of your transom, engine weight should be taken into consideration.
Additionally, consider a smaller engine will run more RPM's to reach 30 mph in contrast to a larger engine. I had a 90 hp on my Montauk and have a 115 hp on my Outrage. While I can go 40+, I often cruise at 28-30 mph.
Take a look at this great
reference article on engine choices by Joe Kriz.
Hope this helps and again, welcome.