Engine Choice

pmorgan · 06 May 2004, 18:47

Hi

I currently have an Optimax outboard which I am pleased with. The performance is excellent and it has only let me down once and that was due to a faulty part.

However, I am trying to but together a specification for a new RIB and feel I need to explore the possibility of a 4 stroke. Does anyone have experiences / regrets of doing the swap ?

Just a few more details, I am looking to buy an 8m RIB and looking for an outboard in the region of 225+ hp.

Many thanks in advance.

Biggles · 06 May 2004, 18:48

IT ?

Sorry just had to do it. No harm meant.

Richard B · 06 May 2004, 18:49

...hoice?

pmorgan · 06 May 2004, 18:51

None taken ! But fair comment. More haste less speed !

Richard B · 06 May 2004, 18:55

Quote:

Originally Posted by pmorgan

8m RIB and looking for an outboard in the region of 225+ hp...

IMHO, no contest... Yahaha hpdi 250 or 300. They are the same 3.3 block, so the 300 make sense an a 8m RIB. But I would say that, wouldn't I?

pmorgan · 06 May 2004, 18:57

I must admint I like the idea of a 300hp Yamaha as well - but they are £20K+ slight over budget for that I could have two optimaxs !

Richard B · 06 May 2004, 19:00

Quote:

Originally Posted by pmorgan

300hp Yamaha...£20K+ slight over budget for that I could have two optimaxs !

Crikey! That put's a damper on it

tue · 06 May 2004, 19:04

Quote:

Originally Posted by pmorgan

However, I am trying to but together a specification for a new RIB and feel I need to explore the possibility of a 4 stroke.

Why? Optis are lighter and give better fuel economy figures.

swginn · 06 May 2004, 19:35

Quote:

Why? Optis are lighter and give better fuel economy figures.

Not when you're at WOT!!

Why not go all out and get a supercharged four stroke. Mercury Verado. Has power steering and looks like one serious piece of kit!!

http://www.mercuryverado.com

Was the faulty part anything to do with the power trim/ tilt? I only ask because my 135 opti will be arriving at the end of the month and I've heard that is a common problem. Great to hear good reports otherwise.

Rogue Wave · 06 May 2004, 19:43

I have a mate with a 250 Yammie 4 stroke and it pulls 70 LPH at WOT. I don't think a 225 Opti is any thirstier than that.

I am with Tue go for the Opti. if you want twins think about two 175's

swginn · 06 May 2004, 19:57

What I should have said that the opti is far more efficient below 4500rpm.

Rogue, spot on with the twin 175s. They'll be nice and light as they are essentially a tuned up 135. Roll on the end of the month.

pmorgan, what 8m are you looking at?

pmorgan · 06 May 2004, 20:23

Quote:

Originally Posted by swginn

Not when you're at WOT!!
Was the faulty part anything to do with the power trim/ tilt? I only ask because my 135 opti will be arriving at the end of the month and I've heard that is a common problem. Great to hear good reports otherwise.

Hi swginn
The problem I had was with the water pump impeller the drive shaft separated from the impeller part giving me a cooling problem. The part was only a month old so I am assuming it was a manufacturing fault. I believe that the design might have been changed on later / larger models ours is a 1999 model. Have fun with your new toy !

Thanks all for your excellent feed back

pmorgan · 06 May 2004, 20:23

Quote:

Originally Posted by swginn

pmorgan, what 8m are you looking at?

swginn I am looking at a Scorpion

simmons0 · 06 May 2004, 20:29

There is someone on these forums who has an 8m scorp with a 225 honda 4/s
I cant think who it is but it must be worth talking to him.

pmorgan · 06 May 2004, 20:42

Quote:

Originally Posted by simmons0

There is someone on these forums who has an 8m scorp with a 225 honda 4/s
I cant think who it is but it must be worth talking to him.

Thanks simmons0, I met him on course the other weekend, talking to him has made me decide to try and get the RIB this seasion and not wait till next ! He is happy with his Honda - but I am still in the 2 stroke camp at present!