prodigal1 wrote:
Now that I have your attention, the question is related to outboards. On
my vintage sailboat, aux power is an outboard going out through a well
in the lazarette. Currently a steeenkin 2-stroke 15hp Johnson, I'd like
to replace it with one of those sweet Honda 9.9hp 4-strokes. Currently
the Johnson in place is a 15in shaft. Any comments positive or negative
with respect to putting in a 25in Honda?

I would only buy a long shaft if required. I wonder how much of the
shaft in your current motor is underwater? Most sailboats do need a
long shaft when mounted on the transom...but yours may sit low enough
already.