Re: Outboard or I/O?
When you ask a question like this you are going to get a wide range of responses. I will give you my opinion based on the fact that I have recently owned both a 3.0 mercruiser I/O and 200 hp Evinrude outboard. If you boat in salt water as I do, I feel your best bet is an outboard motor. I had a very difficult time keeping salt water out of my engine compartment when I had the I/O. I also had to change the bellows, gimble bearings, risers and manifold every 2 or 3 years because of the salt. Those repairs can get quite expensive. My outboard was much easier to maintain. I performed routine maintenence for the first 5 years before recently having to change the propshaft seal. If I were boating in freshwater only I might be more inclined to buy I/O. You get more horsepower for the money and the salt will not kill you. Gas milage for me was much better with the I/O, but much less work keeping the outboard running. Just my two cents. Good luck in your decision.
