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Author	Topic:   Is it worth switching engine?
Cole	posted 09-14-2002 02:10 PM ET (US)         I own a 1997 17' Outrage with a Mercury 135HP Carb Motor, it's perfect. I have a buyer for my current motor and with his cash a repower to a 2003 Merc 115 4-stroke will cost me $3500 turn key. Struggling with the choice...do you think this change is worth $3500.00 Things to consider: I live in CA (lakes are getting restricted) 3 Years of warranty on the new engine Easy swap Merc to Merc, all controls work Higher resale value...$3500 more?? Never get more money for my current motor This is a long term boat for our family Thanks Chris
dscew	posted 09-14-2002 02:25 PM ET (US)          I'm not an expert, but I think it would be worth it if the lower power and reduced acceleration inherent to 4 stroke engines are not issues; for "family" boating they usually aren't. For longevity, no smoke, no oil, and lower noise levels, the 4 strokes have it hands down. I have a 17' Whaler, and I think a 60 HP 4 stroke would be ideal for my family's boating (rated for 100 HP). You will want to look at the minimum and maximum rated HP for the boat. If the 115 is toward the upper end of the range, I would think it would be fine.
lhg	posted 09-14-2002 02:39 PM ET (US)          Do some searching for a previous discussion on same issue, almost same engines. Clark Roberts recently switched from a 135 Opti to a 115 4-stroke Merc. He detailed his experience.
Drisney	posted 09-15-2002 04:25 PM ET (US)             Cole, Your profile doesn't indicate where you are in Calif. But I believe that more and more lakes in Calif are going to be restricted. Lake Tahoe (which is restricted) has a wonderful boat in only campground on Emerald Bay. Great for a family outing. All of my friends who have switched to four cycle have been amazed and delighted at how quiet the motors are and smoke free....both huge pluses for family use. From yout description I think you should go for it !!!!Dave
Bigshot	posted 09-16-2002 01:35 PM ET (US)             Do it!
JFM	posted 09-16-2002 02:56 PM ET (US)             I'll second Bigshot's motion. Do It!
David Ratusnik	posted 09-16-2002 03:40 PM ET (US)             I'll up you two guys one-- if it's a "family boat" then sell it now 2 stroke and all and upgrade into the 20+ class. Money is no issue it would seem so buy the 4 stroke on a biggen. May be wasting the $3500 otherwise. .03 David

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