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We are replacing a Mercury 125 that weighs 367 lbs. Hull is rated for 150 HP or 510 lbs, latter is based on info from this forum and I have not been able to confirm with manufacturer.
I was originally intrigued by the new ETEC G2 3-cylinder due to low weight, but have since concluded this is engine was built for the pontoon market.
I barely considered the G2 150 H.O. due to excessive weight of 530 lbs. Therefore, I ordered a G1 150 at 418 lbs, which should arrive in a week or so.
I dropped the boat off at the engine dealer on 8/31/19 so they could begin prepping hull for new engine. I spent quite a bit of time talking with the mechanic - not the salesman - and he really challenged my decision to not go for the G2.
He said he believed the hull could handle the G2 weight fine, and the H.O. actually has about 172 HP.
So, money aside, should I get the G1 or G2. Ultimately, will the boat have better performance with a G2 150 H.O. (allegedly at 172 HP) and 112 lbs more than the G1 150 HP?
I’m certainly second guessing my original conclusion to get a G1, but I had largely dismissed the G2 because it weighed so much more than what I was replacing, and appears to be over manufacturer specifications.
Tough call. Besides weight, there is also the aesthetic factor. That G1 engine looks very sharp on a Whaler, but many people can’t warm up to the G2.
Incidentally, the 25” shaft G1 150 is actually 433 lbs (plus the weight of the 2-stroke oil reservoir & oil, approx 20 lbs.) The 25” uses a beefier offshore gearcase, hence the big bump in weight over the 20”.
Understood that money is not an important factor in your decision. However, assuming you will one day sell your Whaler I believe the sale will be easier with a modern engine. Appearance is important and the G2 has become far more palatable since the introduction of the new Mercury designs.
Thank you all for your helpful insight. I decided on the G2 and can’t wait to see it. I’ll let you know how it performs. Funny how there’s been so much opposition to the aesthetics, including my son, but I believe we’ll all adapt to the looks.
