No Greg, we don't use stainless props on the rental units. The problem with
stainless is they are too good.

When an inexperienced operator does hits something, stainless props don't
break. Instead the lower unit breaks. It is much less expensive to replace a
prop. Suzuki uses a rubber hub that slips before most prop damage occurs.
Merc uses a metal slip clutch, which can fail. This has occurred too many
time with our rental engines, resulting in a lot of damage.

We also "throttle" the 90hp engines at about 85%. This reduces the top speed
of the rental boat to 15 mph. If the driver hits something at 15, there is
much less damage and likelyhood of injury then if speed was 25-30. It also
saves a lot of fuel, (Which we supply.) and wear and tear.

The suzuki's we use (90hp) have a reduction gear between the power head and
prop shaft, reducing the speed of the main shaft. Since lower unit the
moving parts are slowed, we have put out a lot less money in repairs! The
Suzuki DF90 and DF115, and DF's 60 & 70 are the exact same engine(s), except
for a difference in the injectors.

2 of our 21' pontoons use the Suzuki 60 engines (unthrottled) and have
plenty of performance.
http://www.mercurymarine.com/mercury...oot_fourstroke

If you look at the above link to merc's bigfoot page you will find the Merc
60hp bigfoot. Which is the largest motor in the "bigfoot" family. Dry
Weight (lbs.) (Lightest Version model, excludes engine oil, rigging,
hardware and propeller): 264

It is not comparable to a 90hp Suzuki. The Suzuki 60 weighs 335 pounds. A
little more then its "lightest version" Merc counter part.
http://suzukimarine.com/4strokes/fea...=DF60&mn2=DF70

The above link is to allow you to compare specs. Be sure to compare
horsepower vs horsepower.

You will find the Suzuki costs less too. Especially when you add in
Mercury's "options" like a prop and PT&T. Suzuki's engine is supplied with a
prop, which is an "optional added cost item" (+$175.00) on Mercs, and
includes power tilt and trim as a standard item.
Merc's PT&T is optional at cost.(+$600.00) This is where the bulk of your
weight difference is. I would not power a pontoon without power tilt and
trim. Trying to raise the engine from the motor deck is a backbreaker. The
above cost figures are based on local dealership's quotes in Jacksonville,
Florida

Suzuki's alternator puts out more juice to recharge the batteries and let
the renters play the radio and burn lights all night and run their fancy
gadgets. We retrofit a dual battery system with auto charging. 1 house
battery for playing radio and accessories and 1 "starting only" battery
which remains charged even if the house battery is depleated.

And no, I don't work for Suzuki, I just buy them.

I hope that helps with your research.

Capt. Frank





"Greg" wrote in message
...
I thought all the "Big Foot" mercs were 4 stroke. Mine is.
I also think weight does make a difference. The stern will sit very low if
you
hang too much weight back there and that makes the "oyster" problem worse.
Don't you run stainless props?