I/O vs. an Outboard

[gregmercer]

I am set on buying a bowrider. For the past few days I have probably spent 15 hours searching for the perfect boat. At first I had my heat set on an Outboard because I figured it would be much easier to work on if need be, more room inside the boat and easier for a floor replacement. The only problem is nearly all of the boats I find that are right for me have I/O engines. What are some of the pros and cons of each and which one would you guys recommmend? I'm sure there has to be some advantages to a I/O or else the majority of boats wouldn't have them. As of now I am thinking they probably are better balanced and it would be better for pulling tubes and water skiers because their isn't that big motor in the back. Many of the I/O also have swim decks in the back which I like. What do you guys think? Thanks!<br /><br />Greg

 

[budman8330]

Re: I/O vs. an Outboard

This usually turns into a heated debate among boaters. It kind of boils down to opinion, really. <br /><br />I prefer an outboard to an i/o. <br /><br />here are some personal pro's and cons. An i/o is generally more heavy. But you wont really notice that with all of the extra TQ it produces. An outboard in my opinion, is easier to work on and easier to remover if need be. People will tell you that parts for i/o's are more expensive. In some cases, yes they will be, in others, they wont. And vice versa for outboards .<br /><br />I like the fact that i dont have to crawl into the bidge area to work on my outboard. <br /><br />If you are into modifying hot rodding etc, i would think an i/o would be easier to get speed parts for. I'm a car guy as well, so i would prefer to mod a small block chevy than a 4 cylinder evinrude. <br /><br />As far as reliability goes, its the same as anything else. maintain it the best you can, dont beat the utter crap out of it, and it can give you a long happy life, in either case. And if not, thats what warranties are for

 

[JasonJ]

Re: I/O vs. an Outboard

You see more I/O runabouts because they are more asthetically pleasing. Most people, when they buy a boat, want something that will serve its purpose without being overly intrusive. In anotherwords, an I/O has most of its works hidden, and are more quiet. To a fisherman, nothing is more beautiful than a functional outboard equipped boat that gets it done. For the rest of the boating community, they just want to be on the water with little noise, smoke, or fuss. <br /><br />Also, an I/O drivetrain is less expensive than an outboard that is of sufficient power to equal the I/O in performance (but I/Os can be more expensive to maintain and repair). In the end though, it really does just boil down to cost and asthetics. Also, when the wife does let you buy a boat, she is remembering dads stinky 2 stroke outboard boat she grew up on, and wants nothing to do with that, despite the fact that new outboards are superior to I/O in every way except cost.<br /><br />I think you should get the boat that best fits YOUR needs. For me, I won't touch an inboard/outdrive boat because it does not fit my needs nearly as much as an outboard equipped boat. For you, an I/O sounds like an ideal format. Good luck....

 

[jimmbo]

Re: I/O vs. an Outboard

Being lighter and having a better power to rate ratio, outboards will out accellerate most I/Os and have smaller wakes, making them better for pulling skiers. Also having a 90 degree versus 60 degree swivel makes them more manuavable than I/Os. With the new DFI models outboards are now providing better fuel economy than I/Os. Power trim systems are more, how do I say it... The tilt pivot point is at a better location to provide a better arc than the pivot point on an I/O. No oily mess in the bilge after an oil change. And most important, Outboard boats look way cooler.

 

[alden135]

Re: I/O vs. an Outboard

I have owned 4 boats. 3 outboard and 1 i/o. I prefer the outboard. I feel better knowing if my motor craps out it's just a matter of hanging another and hooking up the cables and fuel line.

 

[epresutti]

Re: I/O vs. an Outboard

Gregmercer,<br /><br />Down here (Tampa Bay area, gulf side) the motor of choice is outboard with the people I boat with. Like was mentioned earlier, it is a use/choice issue.<br /><br />A lot of my neighbors have dual (some even tripple, although I think it is overkill) outboards, mostly for offshore, you don't want to be 30 miles out with no way back and a current taking you to Mexico <br /><br />Plus: in the saltwater it is a lot easier to flush and wash down an outboard.<br /><br />Peace.<br /><br />Ed.