On 1 Aug 2006 14:02:57 -0700, "KJ" wrote:
Ok - I'm going to start a heated debate....

I am looking for a new engine for my 11 foot Caribe inflatable. The
boat has a hard bottom and is rated up to a 20 horse. Weight is a
concern, because I pull it off the dingy put it on the "Big Boat".

I am looking at several 2005 "new" leftover 2-stroke engines.

If you had $1,500 to $2,000 - what would you buy?

2005 15 HP Mercury 2-stroke....$1,895.
2006 15 HP Johnson 2 Stroke...$2,100.
2005 9.9 HP Yamaha 2 Stroke...$1,500 (used 10 hours)
2005 9.9 HP Johnson 2 Stroke...$1,795

I look forward to your discussion and thanks for taking the time to
respond.

I have the same boat with a 10 year old Merc 15 on it. Performance is
just about right although I'm thinking about getting a new 20. I
don't think you'd be happy with less than 15 on it. Merc vs Johnson
is mostly a religious discussion in my opinion. I bought my Merc new
in 1996 and have been very happy with it, requiring virtually zero
professional maintenance.