Posted By: wh2004
30hp tiller Tohatsu vs Etec - 07/09/14 05:44 PM
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
Posted By: opus
Re: 30hp tiller Tohatsu vs Etec - 07/09/14 10:27 PM
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
Posted By: wh2004
Re: 30hp tiller Tohatsu vs Etec - 07/09/14 10:58 PM
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
Posted By: Going Green
Re: 30hp tiller Tohatsu vs Etec - 07/11/14 02:43 PM
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.
Posted By: wh2004
Re: 30hp tiller Tohatsu vs Etec - 07/11/14 02:59 PM
I appreciate it Going Green.
Posted By: wh2004
Re: 30hp tiller Tohatsu vs Etec - 07/11/14 03:00 PM
Btw, doesn't Tohatsu make the small Mercs? Just curious because I have heard that.
Posted By: redchevy
Re: 30hp tiller Tohatsu vs Etec - 07/11/14 08:10 PM
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!
Posted By: wkh2006
Re: 30hp tiller Tohatsu vs Etec - 07/12/14 02:57 AM
BTW you can get the etec with electric start and T&T
Posted By: taterpop
Re: 30hp tiller Tohatsu vs Etec - 04/10/15 04:07 AM
I have used nissan & tohatsu motors for the last 28 years they are tuff.