I'm interested in changing the main on my utility boat to something
around 70hp, probably an oil-injected 2-stroke although I've not
completely ruled out 4-stroke. I've been wresting with using the 60hp
E-Tec or the 70hp Yamaha.

As you probably know, the Yamaha uses old-school carburetion. My
local Evinrude dealer is naturally badmouthing carburetion, claiming
that today's bad gas (read as 10%-15% ethanol, along with sediments)
creates frequent trouble for carbureted engines, making the the old-
school 70hp Yamaha inferior.

Like me, do you say "hooey" (or something stronger) to that?? I doubt
there is more sediment in gas today than in the past (suddenly making
carburetion "inferior"). I don't remember carburetion giving me fits
of trouble when I used to own them. Admitting that my wrench turning
skills are limited, I cannot imagine why injection technology handles
fuel sediments any better, for that matter, but I'd grant that efi is
easier on fuel and would choose efi in the Yami 2-stroke if offered as
an option. It looks simply like Yamaha offers the largest hp
(consistent with my mfg's recommended max hp) for the lightest total
weight.

Save me from making a mistake! As noted on an earlier thread, why my
stone age 2-stroke preference? Beyond weight savings it's that I
already have a 4-stroke kicker. The main is just for getting around
and, as the kids grow up, pulling a tube.

Although a near second choice, the sometimes-reported midrange
troubles with E-Tecs make me a little nervous. I can't really tell
from postings on various boards if Evinrude has completely dealt with
the problem--even after having years to do so. Since this is a
relatively light weight aluminum utility (925# dry) I'm pretty
sensitive to keep engine weight to a minimum. Chunky Hondas (4-stroke
anyway) and the 75hp Optimax are out.

Your carburetion/efi thoughts appreciated.

John