Outboard vs Inboard??

[Tirwin]

We are looking to buy a 2001 18ft bayliner, but don't know if an outboard or an IO would be best for the motor. Which is better on gas? Which is easiest to maintain, and which is cheapest to fix? Any suggestions?

 

[ODDD1]

Re: Outboard vs Inboard??

well tirwin i/o s better on gas but cost more than outboards in initial purchase price an yearly maintenance are also cleaner than outboards an last longer (10 years vs 15 to 20 on i/os ) this is all dependent on fresh water use...in salt water go with the outboard an dont keep it to long......

 

[Tirwin]

Re: Outboard vs Inboard??

Thank you ODDD1, Do you know how much better the IO is on gas? So far, we've heard that outboard is easier to maintain and cheaper to fix. Have you had both or do you work with them often?

 

[Frankies Marine]

Re: Outboard vs Inboard??

O/B most of the time cost more on fuel, but, youdont have to drain and winterize, so you can use all year round.<br /> I/O run on less fuel, but you have more parts, a little motor up keep, you also have to drain from freezing unless you install a closed water system.

 

[Tirwin]

Re: Outboard vs Inboard??

Thanks Frankies Marine, we did decide to go ahead with the outboard. Picked up the new boat on Saturday. It just seems that I/O is the most popular choice for motors these days. Most of the things we read tended to lean towards the outboard, though.

 

[Michael Weaver]

Re: Outboard vs Inboard??

You did't mention make or horsepower of engines. Salt or fresh water. Always in water or on a trailer. Skiing or cruise. <br /> Anyway, post purchase, have fun. My advise, never garage or cover it wet, get it out of the sun when dry, pull the plug when on the trailer, and wax it. As far as the engine, read the book it came with.

 

[Tirwin]

Re: Outboard vs Inboard??

It's a 125 hp Mercury, will be stored on a trailer mostly used for skiing in fresh water. Thank you for your advice.

 

[Fastcat]

Re: Outboard vs Inboard??

Outboard, outboard, outboard.<br />Way more bang for the buck, smaller motors(under 200hp) are readily available. Better performance, economy, flexiblity.<br />weight to power ratio can NOT be beat.

 

[Tirwin]

Re: Outboard vs Inboard??

Hi fastcat. I think we made a good choice when deciding to go with the outboard. Haven't had a chance to take it out yet, but hope to soon.<br />Thanks for your reply, the reassurance is great.

 

[Fastcat]

Re: Outboard vs Inboard??

Glad to hear it. Now to make sure your getting all the performance you want, are you familiar with setback, jackplates?<br />Got lots of great info for you if not, feel free to email any question also.<br />fastcat@lasvegas.com

 

[Tirwin]

Re: Outboard vs Inboard??

No, not familar with those at all. What info do you have?