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Hi all,

I know this topic has been discussed ad nauseam, but I was hoping to get some thoughts from the crowd on repower suggestions for my specific applications. I have a 1969 13' "custom", boat has a super sport interior layout. My baby, the 1985 merc 50 inline 4 cyl is giving me poor compression on cyl 3 and I've decided against trying to rebuild something so old with corrosion and no power tilt/trim.

I have my transom built up to accept a 20" shaft. I'm between the Suzuki 30hp or the Tohatsu 40hp. I can order the Suzuki directly to my door for ~$5k while the Tohatsu 40 must be installed by a dealer. Found someone local willing to do a "bare bones" install for ~$8k. I'm leaning towards the 40 because the super sport interior adds significant weight to the boat, I want the option to ski (I dont currently but might in the future) and I've heard the 30 doesn't do well with 4 adults on board. I normally run with 1-2 adults, but want the option to have more power with 4 adults when I do have the extra weight. The 40 weighs ~209lbs while the 30 is 155lbs and I would like to keep the weight down, thats why I am even really considering the 30 in the first place. I've also heard that you can swap out the ECU on the MFS40 with a 50hp ecu, as the blocks are identical. Don't think I'd ever need that much power, but certainly a fun (dangerous) idea.

I'm looking to keep the boat at a 30+ mph top speed, so any prop recommendations are helpful. I know this will depend on what motor I go with, but I am leaning towards the 40 with a 3 blade SS prop 11-13 pitch? Any insights there are greatly appreciated.

I really appreciate the help and any insight from anyone with either of these motors on their rig.

Thanks!

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Repowers do not have any payback so spending less is always wise.

Even with all your details, saving 3K is compelling.

Props:

Suzuki DF30a - Suzuki 9.25x11” pitch

Tohatsu 40 -

From a post back in '18

With a WOT of 5850, 1.85 gear ratio, target speed of 32 (based on 40hp), 5% slip, the prop calculator is showing 11" of pitch. In stainless steel, that is part # PT4050P11

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Thanks Phil, I appreciate the insight as always. Hoping whatever I go with will last me another ~30 seasons so the extra $100/year (over 30) makes sense to get a bit more hp. Am I way off in thinking a new outboard will last that long with proper service and light use (20-50 hrs/season)?

Thanks!

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Yep, the more you use it, the longer it will last. An engine sitting is what leads to failure.

It is a good excuse to get out. The engine requires use so I have to go out in the boat.