which type engine to look for?

[PatRa]

I'm going to buy a used boat shortly (aluminum fishing boat). Not sure what is best for me, an outboard or i/o? Looking for a 19' to 21' Alumaweld type boat, will be used mostly in bay and rivers (not whitewater). I've always preferred outboards, but alway had smaller boats. The price of the bigger outboards seems to make me consider an i/o? Any thoughts or suggestions? Thanks.

 

[garbageguy]

suggest putting in a few extra $ to have a newer outboard

 

[JimS123]

Buy an I/O, and then trade it in a few years later for a newer MPI outboard. Then you'll wonder why you didn't go that route in the first place.

As with almost everything else, you get what you pay for. When one platform is cheaper than another, there is usually a good reason.

 

[Chris1956]

An outboard motor will save lots of space over an I/O. My 21 footer with an OB gives me lots of room to fight those pesky fish.....No Doghouse to trip over....

Also, OBs are about 500-800# lighter than an I/O. This helps launch and recover activities.

 

[flyingscott]

Also outboards can run in skinny water because they tilt higher.