Re: What is "best" 2 cycle 15-20 hp outboard?
Hi Tarheel<br /><br />You didn't say whether you're buying a new or used motor.<br /><br />If you're buying used, then I recommend you do the following;<br /><br />1. Look around your local boat dealers / repair shops and/or parts suppliers to see what brands they specialise in. Identify which of these you would want to deal with and then you will know what brand(s) will be best for you.<br /><br />2. Find an engine of the brand you're looking for which looks like it's been well looked after during it's lifetime. Check compression & plugs, hear it running and if you can get a sea trial that's even better. Make sure the cooling water is circulating well too.<br /><br />As far as new engines go, if you stick with the major engine brands like Mercury, Mariner, Johnson, Evinrude etc you can't go too far wrong.<br /><br />Nissan (or Tohatsu which is the same engine) is a good value for money, reliable, well performing proposition if you have parts & dealer support in your area. I recommend you look at the recent posts on Tohatsu to find out more about this one.<br /><br />If you're looking in the 15 to 20hp range, then I recommend 20hp. Nobody regrets having extra power. Make sure you compare the relative weights of the engines too. Nissan/Tohatsu is the lightest I think.<br /><br />Good luck!
