For those who still have 2-strokes

[ApS]

Originally Posted by XCR-700

But you are comparing your x-years old 2 - stroke to a brand new 4 - stroke, not a reasonable comparison. I could tell you all the reasons a new 2 - stroke is better than an x-year old 4 - stroke when they first hit the market and anyone would say not valid.
You need to compare both as current model year engines on a boat where the differences like weight may have an impact (or not) and you will see each has its merits. That 50+ Lbs - 100 Lb extra weight of the same horsepower 4 - stroke engine is an unacceptable problem on many bass/ski/sport/flats boats, where as on a 40' Formula its not even notable. All is not equal, and 4 - strokes outboards are not a universal better option. Maybe better in many cases, but not all.

Inflatable boats require lighter engines. Even 20-foot sailboaters are looking for lightness among their 4-6 HP choices. Moving down to 3-HP compromises movement against current and tides.

Let's use the 2-strokes as mining, forming, and machining new motors are moving manufacturing overseas. (To our ultimate detriment).

[8gv]

My Yamaha 115 sits on a transom that was designed for its weight.

It is quiet, clean and smooth.

But... I still love the smell of a two stroke in the morning!

[FlyingScot]

Originally Posted by ApS

Inflatable boats require lighter engines. Even 20-foot sailboaters are looking for lightness among their 4-6 HP choices. Moving down to 3-HP compromises movement against current and tides.

Let's use the 2-strokes as mining, forming, and machining new motors are moving manufacturing overseas. (To our ultimate detriment).

I have a 19' sailboat and went with a 4 HP all electric Torqueedo. As XCR advises, I was careful to use the best motor for the specific need. The drawback of the electric is that it will only go 10 miles or so between charges, but that's plenty for a sailboat, and I LOVE never having to buy/handle gas and oil, the quiet is blissful, and there is absolutely zero maintenance.

[ApS]

When weight is everything to a sailboat's efficiency, how does the price, power, and weight compare with dirt-cheap propane?

Battery packs aren't "forever".

https://www.powerequipmentdirect.com...RoClagQAvD_BwE

[FlyingScot]

Originally Posted by ApS

When weight is everything to a sailboat's efficiency, how does the price, power, and weight compare with dirt-cheap propane?

Battery packs aren't "forever".

https://www.powerequipmentdirect.com...RoClagQAvD_BwE

Great questions! I cant remember the specs, and I think my exact model is discontinued, but from looking at your link, I'm pretty sure that for 4 HP or so electric is more expensive, but much less weight than the propane (maybe 30-40 lbs instead of 80 lbs inc fuel). Battery life is excellent (no apparent degradation in 5 years) and the battery is replaceable when it dies.

[LikeLakes]

I'm not sure of the exact model Torqueedo we are talking about, but I believe it would be over $3,000. It is amazing tech, no question about it.

[dippasan]

When power to weight ratio is important....2 stroke wins.
My 800cc snowmobiles are 170HP and the motor weighs 60-70lbs
-Chain saws
-String trimmers
-Leaf blowers
-Off trail snowmobiles

#No valves
#No camshaft
#No pushrods
#No crankcase oil