Outboard vs Outboards Opinions Up

[RATS]

Currently older twin 150 smokers, gonna go 1 more season on them and then....


Option 1 Twin 4 stroke 4cyl 175hp roughly 985 lbs:

Benefits more power, 1 breaks on water have at least 1 to get home

Draw-backs twice the cost, more weight, more fuel, more maintenance


Option 2: Single 4 stroke 6cyl 300hp roughly 600lbs:

Benefits less $$ upfront and use cost, less weight, increase in distance per tank

Draw Backs of course having 1 motor during a breakdown


So add to the lists above.
I have decided on the brand and that is not part of the discussion.

[RATS]

Those are dry weights

[Gerry Zagorski]

If I could get away with one engine instead of two that's the way I'd go. That and towing insurance if you do happen to break down.

[Gerry Zagorski]

Some other things to consider

- 1 + 1 does not equal 2 when it comes to engines. A single 300 horsepower engine will run circles around twin 150s and get better fuel economy too. The extra weight and drag from the 2nd engine is what causes this.

- There are things like bad fuel that can cause both engines not to work so having 2 is not always a fail safe.

- If you loose one engine, your boat is not likely going to able to get up on plane on one, so you are still in for a slow ride home

[Charlie B]

There is a third option. One big motor and a small kikker with it's own fuel tank. It could get you home. Not very fast but better than nothing. Could also be good for slow trolling...Charlie

[Capt. Debbie]

How big is the boat?

A single 300hp on a 20+ footer cuddy is a decent speed. On the most perfect of days may even hit near 30 MPH ( not knots).

And as pointed out, a single O/B means no backup means towing insurance or a kicker.

Advantage is only 1/2 the maintenance costs. A BIG PLUS