90 Mariner Optimax vs 90 Tohatsu TLDI

[Mr Flibble]

I know they're pretty similar but does anyone have a preference of one over the other?
Similar price. Tohatsu lighter. Mariner 5yr warranty, Tohatsu 3 year warranty. What is the better value, more reliable lump?

Thanks.

[abc]

Originally Posted by Mr Flibble

I know they're pretty similar but does anyone have a preference of one over the other?
Similar price. Tohatsu lighter. Mariner 5yr warranty, Tohatsu 3 year warranty. What is the better value, more reliable lump?

Thanks.

Watching this with interest, I am just about to make a similar choice.

abc

[codprawn]

I really don't think there would be much to choose between them. I have heard great things about both of them.

If it was me it would come down to purchase price and the best deal I could get.

If that still doesn't help then the lighter engine would win - assuming it is a reasonable difference - failing that toss a coin!!!

[Nos4r2]

The opti 90 is a VERY heavy lump. Check the weight of the etec 90 or the TLDI.

[codprawn]

Flipping heck - 170kg for the opti - 145kg for the tohatsu and the Evinrude - no contest!!!

For me the Opti would be totally out of the mix - it would come down to the Etec as Nos says or the Tohatsu - again the best deal on the day would be the decider.

[al40]

Also worthwhile looking at dealer network for any servicing / warranty type issues (ie how close is dealer to you). Whilst I am really happy with my Tohatsu, anything major means it has to go back to the main tohatsu place (hassle removing engine and shipping it back but as a dealer they are exceptionally compitent).. I'm guessing that both of these engines need dealer type servicing.

[Jizm]

The opti will definitely use more fuel as well.

[Mr Flibble]

Thanks for the advice guys. Looks like the Tldi is the engine to go for. The lighter weight is a big plus. The Opti does have a 5 year warranty though. As for dealers I have a Tohatsu dealer about 1 mile down the road, the nearest Mariner dealer is about 20 miles away. So again the tldi comes top.
Seen a few advertised online. Bill Higham Marine are offering the 90 TLDI for just under 5k. Is that a good price? Anyone recommend Bill Higham Marine? Anywhere cheaper?

Thanks again.

[Chris]

Originally Posted by Mr Flibble

Anyone recommend Bill Higham Marine? Anywhere cheaper?

Thanks again.

Personally I would not give them the time of day. However that is not from experience just reading what people have said on here and other forums.

[Pete7]

Never had a problem dealing with Bill Highman. He makes his money flogging engines to Manchester and Liverpool lads for there speed boats. He also has a huge stock of old spares which can be useful.

However he buys cheap stock and sells it at a high price, often seems to have Mariner and Tohatsu stock so perhaps other dealers clearing excess. You could argue this is a good business plan, it probbably is providing your not the customer looking for a gearbox for a 15 year old outboard and he is the only one who has one, because he will know that and price it accordingly.

Would I buy a 90 Tohatsu for less than 5 grand from him? yes, having shopped around to see if the price was one of the lowest.

Pete