Trying to decide between these two motors for a skiff I am having built. Anyone have any input on these two motors?
I like the idea of the lower maintenance cost of the Etec but I don't think they have electric start or power tilt and trim. Not sure if manual start should be a deal breaker or not.
The Tohatsu has electric start and PTnT but is a 4 stroke with the more demanding maintenance cost and schedule plus it has a break in period that the Etec does not.

Price is so close it's negligible. Also must be a short shaft motor and I don't think the new Suzuki has a SS.

What do you think?

Thanks

Same price no doubt about it tohatsu----Also must be a short shaft motor and I don't think the new Suzuki has a SS.????? WHAT

Thanks on the Tohatsu.

Sorry, should have explained myself better. I know that Suzuki is coming out with a new 30hp and it is supposed to be the lightest 4stroke in its class, so I expected someone to suggest that motor instead. But it only comes in a 20" shaft so it is definitely out.

It looked good in my head, but looking back I can see now that it looks pretty random to have said that about the Suzuki. haha

Electric start on a portable outboard is an unnecessary luxury. Unless you have problems using your arms (in which case I would advise against running a tiller skiff) it adds weight (starter motor, extra cranking battery) and a potential failure point (have seen an e-start gear get stuck engaged to flywheel). I have it on my 25 Merc and have yet to use it. I can start mine with two fingers and a half pull. Don't let it influemce your decision. The E-tecs are great motors, most of the guides up in Alaska where I worked ran them. I prefer 2 strokes to 4 strokes mostly because. I like the smell, sound, and top end, but Tohatsu makes a great motor too. I also prefer to run a premix two stroke (albeit less efficient) because I don't want to hinge catastrophic failure on an oil pump. I think either would be a good choice- also consider weight, although the Etecs are heavy for two strokes.

I appreciate it Going Green.

Btw, doesn't Tohatsu make the small Mercs? Just curious because I have heard that.

I have a 15 hp mercury 4 stroke and pull starting it with two fingers and a 1/2 pull is not gonna happen. It is a great running little motor and starts on the first pull, but its got a bit much compression for the two fingers.

I would go tohatsu 4 stroke all the way!

BTW you can get the etec with electric start and T&T

Not in 15" shaft.

I have used nissan & tohatsu motors for the last 28 years they are tuff.