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in used
4 stroke outboards and 2 stroke outboard boat motors. |
Looking
for a 2-Stroke(non DFI models) or 4-Stroke Outboard
Motor For Sale? Visit
smalloutboards.com 
The following article is of the opinions and statements of AFA Marine, inc. www.smalloutboards.com. We do not take any responsibility for the content on this page. The content found on this page is a perspective of our views on "outboard motors". We are merely stating how we feel about this topic. We encourage and endorse all consumers and readers of this page to formulate their own purchasing decisions based on due diligence, research, and various perspectives related. This article does not compare 2 stroke Direct Fuel Injected models.
The decision to purchase an outboard engine is getting more selective as technology improves. As of now the majority of consumers are faced with several options when deciding upon what kind of outboards will best suite them. The number one factor lately is whether to purchase a new or used two stroke or four stroke engine.
When faced with this decision you must prioritize several features that are prevalent in each motor. For example, two-stroke motors are lighter, faster (in most cases) and less expensive. Four-stroke motors are cleaner, smoother, and more economical. Many people who run in lakes and rivers prefer 4 stroke boat motors because they make great trolling motors and meet the 2006 EPA mandated requirements. Others prefer 2 stroke engines when the need for top end performance and acceleration takes precedence. This is not to say that two-stroke engines cannot troll or four stroke motors are not fast. It's just a matter of preferences, features, and benefits that attract customers. Regardless of what you choose to purchase, if you use due diligence and do your research you cannot go wrong, Below is a table of pros and cons for both motors:
| Pros* |
Cons* |
| Lighter |
More
Pollution |
| Accelerate
Fast, In some Cases More Top End |
Smoke |
| Purchase
Price Less Expensive |
Must
Mix Gas with Oil (Non Oil Injection Models) |
| Easier
to Repair |
Rougher
Idle than 4 strokes |
| Have
Been Around For Almost 80 Years |
Noiser
than Four Stroke Outboards |
| Very
Strong Used Market |
Harder
to Start (in some cases) |
| Parts
Availability |
Carburetors
gum up if not used often |
| High
Resale Value, High Demand |
Spark
Plug Fouling |
| Simple
Design Meaning Less Things To Go Wrong |
- |
| Pros* |
Cons* |
| Quiet
and Smooth |
Heavy |
| Good
Fuel Economy |
Often
Expensive to Repair |
| Great
Trolling Motors |
Not
As Many Trained Mechanics Yet (Growing Rapidly) |
| No
Oil/Gas Mixture |
Often
Expensive to Purchase |
|
Smooth Idle |
Technology Still Being Improved |
| Less
Pollution |
Very
Limited Used Market (Although Growing Rapidly) |
| Accepted
at Any Body of Water |
More
Parts to Malfunction (Technology Improving)* |
| Future
Production will Be all 4-Stroke or Similar |
Most
Not as Powerful as 2-Stroke Rated At Same HP* |
| Very
Reliable |
Harder
to transport or position in storage w/o a stand |
Summary:
What
should I buy, a 4-Stroke or a 2-Stroke?
Well that really depends on your boating situation. Here is
list that may help you decide which motor is appropriate for you.
You really cannot go wrong with either choice. Both motors have their advantages and limitations. Right now you are safe to purchase a 2-stroke motor in most places and not have to worry about being excluded from boating. There are some lakes that require 4-stroke motors but the majority have not adapted these mandates yet. We suggest that you review some of the information on this page as a source of knowledge when it comes time to purchase an outboard motor.
