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Im getting closer to repowering the 17. But im still milking some more life out of the old Merc 80hp. I know this topic has been worn out, so i have a bit of a twist. I have been priceing and studying up on the various engines for my 17. Is any one brand of outboard made now really any better then the others? If i have a chance to buy one of Merc, Yamaha,Etec, or a Susuki, should i just buy the deal? I tend to have a brand loyality, but if one is a much better buy, should i just go with that?
And what are peoples thoughts on mounting one yourself? I mounted a 40hp Johnson on my old 13ft. Was not that hard. Just wondering if its worth the trouble or not? Thanks Joe
Buy the dealer, then buy the deal. Newer outboards are full of computers and electronics, most of which you have to set with a computer and software and only the dealers can do that. If you don't trust the dealer, if he won't talk to you before the sale, he won't talk to you after the sale. Does he/she run a good shop, do they have supplies at reasonable prices, if you have a blowup on a saturday, can he fit you in or tell you how to work around the issues.
If your looking at E-Tec, keep in mind that not all dealers are authorized to sell all HP engines, check the website for your closest authorized dealer. Not sure of the other brands.
I agree with Kamie - if you are buying new - find a great dealer first - then work your deal. Dealer service is paramount with the newer technology outboards of today. Just read around the web about dealer nightmares. They exist everywhere and can have a far worse effect on your boating season than the outboard itself. I think todays outboards are all on a pretty even keel reliability wise.
I have mounted a few outboards myself, but if I were buying a new outboard (which I will be this winter) I will be having the servicing dealer mount it for me... once again its about developing that relationship.
I bought a yamaha based on the number of dealers in area.
Yamaha 11
Honda 2
Mercury/Evinrude 6
Suzuki 1
If I need parts or service, it happens in days not weeks.
Also What is the local SeaTow and Law Enforcement using. They use boats 7 days a week. They are not going to buy a not dependable motor.
Look at the local boat ramps and marinas, What is everyone else using?
I agree, I bought on the fact that there is a large "Factory Authorized" BRP dealer in close to my house, it has been there since 1964, part's parts parts, I can get part's easily, and dealer support is very good, they stand behind their service, open Sunday's too.
mw.
When I was about to buy a new Suzuki 25 for my 13 Whaler, the dealer was going to let me rig it, and then check it out put oil in it and start it. I think that some dealers are afraid you will forget to add the oil, start it and ruin the engine. I wound up buying a Merc. 25 in a box, and doing everything myself. Had no problems with the warranty.
Most people come here for help as it feels reassuring to have many opinions. I have had my mind made up many times and it felt good to have many of the good people on this website add to the confidence of my decision. I agree with the above, the dealer is the tie breaker for me. I would go with the closest and best dealer and consider that brand.
