To re-power or to rebuild?

sgnhis

sgnhis

Member
Greetings and Happy New Year!

I have a 1987 V20 in great condition with the original 1987 Yamaha 150ETXH 2-stroke, 6-cylinder. It has developed a bad knock/ticking noise at idle, but it runs fine at open throttle. A friend who owns a rural marina in Reedville, VA, where I keep the boat, doesn’t think it’s worth rebuilding. He recently became a TOHATSU dealer and is recommending a repower with a new TOHATSU MFS140A 140hp 4-cylinder in either black or white. It would be expensive, but appealing.

On the other hand, I just installed all new upgraded Yamaha gauges, so I’m also considering finding another Yamaha 2-stroke that would bolt right up for about half the cost, and keeping my current motor as a donor for parts.

What are your thoughts? Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

P.S. trying to send a video but can't figure out how to...frustrating!
 

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Good looking boat, and nice fish! I have no experience with Tohatsu engines. What would be the cost? Versus finding a good condition well maintained Yamaha, I know those are hard to come by down this way. Afraid I have more questions than answers. Although it IS nice to have a brand new engine hanging off the stern.
 
I would say it comes down to funds. I'd expect the 140 with rigging and install would run around $17k, depending on where you're located. That would get you piece of mind and a great warranty. (I just repowered my 16' Privateer with a new 50hp Tohatsu and I love it). Although you could probably find a newer HDPI Yammy for around $2-4k and those things are pretty bulletproof and you wouldn't have to run new controls/gauges.
 
Thanks, everyone, for the responses—and sorry for the delay getting back to you.

A new four-stroke would be great (and a lot quieter), but $15–$17K is tough to swallow. I could put 50% down and finance the rest through Tohatsu, and their terms seem pretty solid.

That said, my preference would be to find a used two-stroke in great condition that will bolt right up. That way I’d also be able to keep my current motor as a donor for spare parts.

If anyone can help locate one, I’d truly appreciate it—and I’m absolutely willing to offer a generous finder’s fee.

Thanks again for all the help and suggestions.
 
@sgnhis What part of the country are you in? Virginia? These 2 stroke Yammy 150's show up all the time here in North Carolina and the southeast for that matter.
 
Not much here in pa for used outboard. Check fake book marketplace. Or call around to boat shops, maybe u can find one someone took off for a 4 stroke repower.
What state are u from?
 
I live in Northern VA but my boat is in Reedville VA on the bay (mid-bay area). Been all over FB but no luck so far. North Carolina isn't that far would gladly make that run for the right motor. If you run across one haywirefarm I'll make it worth your while. Thanks!
 
Might check marinas around some of the larger freshwater lakes up there. Lotta those lakes are banning 2 strokes. When California went “Green”, Big Shrimpin was living out there and got some sweet deals on 2 strokes.

Also check the Hull Truth classified ads. Lots of motor turnover in S Florida
 
I appreciate the come back phatdaddy, makes since to find one that hasn't been in salt water. Going to Hull Truth classified ads now.

Thanks!
 
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