Honda 75hp

[Donie]

Hi, I’m looking at re-engining my Zodiac Pro Open 550. Current engine is an Evinrude 90hp V4 2 stroke. Very noisy and thirsty.
I mainly use the boat on lakes but would like the option of a few sea trips. I was originally looking at a secondhand Yamaha 80hp 4 stroke but a Honda 75hp has come on the market.
Has anyone done a similar swap? I usually cruise at low-mid twenties for economy and comfort. Will a 75hp Honda be powerful enough?
If you had the choice between an Honda 75 and a Yamaha 80 what would you go for!

[phantom 19]

The Yamaha will last longer. If it is a carbed one though they are getting long in the tooth. They have always been too heavy and big for 80hp, being a derated 100hp and even then they are big for the 100.

[Ferryman]

It’s always how old is it, how many hours has it got on it, service history and condition! I like Yamaha but that’s just brand loyalty - they’re both good engines.

[Ferryman]

Either one will be powerful enough for cruising.

[Donie]

Thanks folks.
Another Honda 75hp has popped up for sale with low hours. I’m tempted but It’s a bit over budget. I rarely carry many passengers and I usually just cruise at low twenties so I suppose a top speed of 30 knots would be fine.

[Ferryman]

IMO you’ll still need 75hp, anything less will feel a bit underpowered.
It’s a good boat but a bit shallow v in the hull which gives much more speed but you need a few HP at sea to control it comfortably through the waves.