Del,

No, I don't have any quantitative data. Would have used it otherwise.

My "some" could well be Karen's many.... or huge numbers???? But it seems
clear from Bill Grannis' comments that there were some problems in the early
models.

Here on the group we don't hear from many unhappy owners (Habbi??) but many who
comment seem pretty happy with the engines. The mechanics and service managers
I've talked to speak of a few early engines with problems. I've no idea what
exactly that means. Admitedly I've only spoken with about a half dozen
technical types so it's hardly a sampling.

If it was still 1999 and I was seeking a light weight 115 HP outboard for my
Whaler I'd again choose a FICHT. Today, given the alternatives, the choice
would be less clear. The new FICHTs would be hard to resist given my
experience with an older one. The new Merc 3 cylinder Opti would also get a
close look. Since I've now been using this boat and motor for almost six years
hole shot is not as important to me as it once was. Therefore the four strokes
would get a very close look.

Choice, aint it wonderful???

Butch

Del asked: Out of curiosity, do you have any quantitative data relating to
"teething problems in 1998 " ie how many 150/175 hp motors did they sell
in 1998 an 1999 and how many failed? I know this data was probably
confidential and guarded closely. but was it like "corvairs had a few
handling problems" or "Vegas had a few engine problems"?

These technical topics are interesting to me.