New Member and need help with motor selection

[drglogan]

New to the group. I have found some interesting discussions on the forums but I have a question about a new motor selection. I currently have an older 14/48 flat bottom with a 40/30 Yamaha jet (2 stroke, tiller). I’m needing to replace the motor. I was looking at a new Yamaha 40/30 jet (4 stroke, tiller). My dealer has found a good motor but they are backordered on the jet pump. Not an uncommon problem and they are saying 6 mo to year out. I found a 50/35 Tahotsu not too far away and he has it in stock and would just need to install the tiller handle, however this motor is quite a bit more in cost. The Tahotsu has power tilt and trim and 5 more horse power, but is available, but at some additional cost. The Yamaha has 5 less horse power no power tilt and trim (Nitro assist) but is much less in cost. I have had good experience with my older Yamaha no experience with Tohatsu motors. Both motors weigh about the same. The power trim seems attractive but not sure how much advantage it is, as I have not had it before. Welcome advice and suggestions.

Thanks

 

[FuzzyGrub]

Welcome to Tin Boats!

I don't have any direct experience with Tohatsu 4-strokes, but also haven't seen any specific issues/complaints about them. The small HP 4-strokes Mercury's are made by Tohatsu. I have had two 2-stroke Tohatsu's (Nissan) and they were built well and performed same.

Outboard Jets has been running about a year behind in orders for at least the last few years.

The extra HP on the Tohatsu, will help make up for the extra weight of the 4-stroke over your current 2-stroke. It should perform close to your current set-up. You still might have to move some weight forward.

Power trim doesn't help too much with a jet. While running, it is typically in the full down and in position. Best case is, it can help with a 1-2 mph at full speed if trimed out slightly. Probably unlikely on your set-up though. Helps much more on prop motors. Now the power tilt does come in handy, especially as you get older .

Yamaha's are good motors, too. If you take your boat to the dealer for all maintenance, the closer one might same you time.

I think it mainly comes down to does the extra cost make up for not loosing a season on the water.