Motor Decision

[bayfisher27]

I am a new botor and need seem solid advice from the professionals (you guys). I am looking at Bay boat with a 2004 Johnson 2 stroke 175 with only 50 hours. I see tons of mercury's and yamahas on the water, but not many JOhnsons. Should I be concerned? Is this a solid make or should I sitck with Yamaha or Merc. Advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you veyr much!!

 

[Dhadley]

Re: Motor Decision

Welcome!!<br /><br />Who in your area is strong in service?

 

[bayfisher27]

Re: Motor Decision

Not sure yet, I am new to the area. I have three dealers with 1.5 hours. I don't mind the drive as long as the service is good. I am just paranoid about buying a motor that is not popular. Do you have experience of knowledge with Johnsons? If so, thank a ton!!

 

[roscoe]

Re: Motor Decision

johnsons been around since about 1914, many many out there.<br />Boaters lost interest in them in 1998-99 when they went bankrupt. They were bought out by Bombardier, ( BRP ) makers of SeaDoo, Evinrude, and Skidoo. Huge company with a very strong design and engineering reputation.<br /><br />I would not hesitate to buy it as long as the motor is not a 1998?-2001 Ficht model.<br /><br /><br /> http://www.brp.com/en/Products/Johnson/Showroom/

 

[JB]

Re: Motor Decision

Yes, what Roscoe said.<br /><br />In the last years of OMC, they made some unreliable big V6s that hurt the Johnson/Evinrude reputation.<br /><br />By 2001, Bombardier had corrected the problems and JohnnyRudes are better than ever.

 

[Dhadley]

Re: Motor Decision

As stated, theres certianly nothing wrong with Johnson / Evinrude. In fact the motors are better than they ever have been. That being said, no matter how good the motor is its only as good as the service you have in your area. No matter what brand it is.<br /><br />For example, Merc has never been as popular as E/J around here simply because there has never been a good service center. Dont know why, just never has been. 50 miles north Merc is very popular and always has been but they have very good service available.<br /><br />Talk to other boaters in your area. They'll tell you who is good and who isnt. Dont ask them about what motor they think is the best -- ask them who offers the best service.

 

[Mercathode]

Re: Motor Decision

If the motor has not been neglected, it will be ok.