11-18-2011, 01:29 PM
First off - my 2c -> 5-10hp. 15 would be tops for a troller, with your big main motor. One suggestion - if you're looking at the "used" market (check KSL) you might want to stick with a more 'standard' brand, especially if you're going back a few years.
Top three - Johnson, Evinrude, Mercury. I'd probably steer clear of the old Sears or JC Penny[crazy] brands - due primarily to parts availability.
I have heard the Johnson/Evinrude have pretty interchangable for parts.
I think part of the deal on 4 strokes: (1) no mixing (2) less fumes, less pollution (oil isn't burning into the lake) (3) better longevity {?} - I know I've run into the infamous "bad gas" syndrome a time or two.
If you have a 2 stroke - get high-grade gas, or find a place with alcohol free. Plus stabilizer/sea foam are your friends! Only mix a bit at a time - as needed.
I have an older Johnson that "lost compression". Mechanic told me it's not worth fixing (I've learned that means HE doesn't want to bother). Others have informed me there's a "kit" or "sleeve" that can refit and restore such an engine. Haven't tapped into actually getting it done. I'm not a mechanic!
But - if you'd care to take a gander at it. I believe it's a 10hp 60's Johnson. I was gonna hang onto it for parts for my Evinrude - but if you wanna have a go at it - send me a PM.
If any mechanically inclined are out there - drop ME a line.
The ONE thing I learned about getting an older motor, used - especially if it's been stored - get the impeller replaced. And make sure you run it in a bucket, or with the wet-muffs on if you're on dry land.
Some have suggested to always "run it dry" at the end of a day - burn out ALL the gas, and it should start up fresh/prompt next time out. (I don't always do that)
Now I need to learn more about winterizing an outboard!
So - you still getting out to float this year? I'm thinking I might have to hit Cutler once more before I pack it up. Have to see how much snow Susie slaps us with tonight!
Top three - Johnson, Evinrude, Mercury. I'd probably steer clear of the old Sears or JC Penny[crazy] brands - due primarily to parts availability.
I have heard the Johnson/Evinrude have pretty interchangable for parts.
I think part of the deal on 4 strokes: (1) no mixing (2) less fumes, less pollution (oil isn't burning into the lake) (3) better longevity {?} - I know I've run into the infamous "bad gas" syndrome a time or two.
If you have a 2 stroke - get high-grade gas, or find a place with alcohol free. Plus stabilizer/sea foam are your friends! Only mix a bit at a time - as needed.
I have an older Johnson that "lost compression". Mechanic told me it's not worth fixing (I've learned that means HE doesn't want to bother). Others have informed me there's a "kit" or "sleeve" that can refit and restore such an engine. Haven't tapped into actually getting it done. I'm not a mechanic!
But - if you'd care to take a gander at it. I believe it's a 10hp 60's Johnson. I was gonna hang onto it for parts for my Evinrude - but if you wanna have a go at it - send me a PM.
If any mechanically inclined are out there - drop ME a line.
The ONE thing I learned about getting an older motor, used - especially if it's been stored - get the impeller replaced. And make sure you run it in a bucket, or with the wet-muffs on if you're on dry land.
Some have suggested to always "run it dry" at the end of a day - burn out ALL the gas, and it should start up fresh/prompt next time out. (I don't always do that)
Now I need to learn more about winterizing an outboard!
So - you still getting out to float this year? I'm thinking I might have to hit Cutler once more before I pack it up. Have to see how much snow Susie slaps us with tonight!