Re: Trihull vs V-hull Bowrider vs Deckboat - Noob Questions
There are pro's and con's to I/O and OB's. Knowing what I know now, I would stay away from larger outboards, (90hp or more.) They are fuel pigs; especially the 2-cycle's. You have to figure the cost of two-cycle oil into each tank of gas too. It's hard to enjoy yourself when you're thinking of how much it's going to cost you to fill up. The 4 cycles aren't as bad, but they still are not very fuel efficient.
Given that, the bottom line is how much HP do you want? A pontoon with a 40hp 4-cycle OB is a nice ride, but not very fast. Worst case the engine goes, the boat still has high value if you sell it. Or if you keep it, it's simple enough to change the OB yourself. Outboards are easy to come by. Not so much with I/O's. You're screwed if the motor is shot.
If you're thinking of a deckboat and you envision tubing or skiing, go with the I/O. You'll have all the power you need. You'll get better fuel efficiency. It's a car motor; most of the time it's easier to get at spark plugs, starters, etc. There are some maintenance items best left to mechanics though. It's boating though. It's an expensive hobby. Post pics or links of what you're thinking about buying.
There are pro's and con's to I/O and OB's. Knowing what I know now, I would stay away from larger outboards, (90hp or more.) They are fuel pigs; especially the 2-cycle's. You have to figure the cost of two-cycle oil into each tank of gas too. It's hard to enjoy yourself when you're thinking of how much it's going to cost you to fill up. The 4 cycles aren't as bad, but they still are not very fuel efficient.
Given that, the bottom line is how much HP do you want? A pontoon with a 40hp 4-cycle OB is a nice ride, but not very fast. Worst case the engine goes, the boat still has high value if you sell it. Or if you keep it, it's simple enough to change the OB yourself. Outboards are easy to come by. Not so much with I/O's. You're screwed if the motor is shot.
If you're thinking of a deckboat and you envision tubing or skiing, go with the I/O. You'll have all the power you need. You'll get better fuel efficiency. It's a car motor; most of the time it's easier to get at spark plugs, starters, etc. There are some maintenance items best left to mechanics though. It's boating though. It's an expensive hobby. Post pics or links of what you're thinking about buying.