My boat has been in and out the shop since May with a mystery problem. It ran perfect for 2 years and now it randomly dies and won't start for several hours. Of course it runs fine when I take it to the shop and there are no error codes recorded. Suzuki said it has something to do with the VST, which sounded like a vapor lock issue. Their uncertain solution was to bypass a vent line away from the VST. The dealer didn't like that answer and neither did I. I told the dealer to put a Yamaha on it. The dealer is being good about it and I'll just pay the difference in MSRP price, which I think is fair.

What do you guys think I should upgrade to? Yamaha 3.3L 225, 4.2L 225 Offshore, or a SHO 250 (the new 25" shaft version)?

I'd say the SHO. Do you need A 25"?

No, not really. My Suzuki is a 25". The dealer has been installing the 20" SHO on my model boat, but they have to mount it lower on the transom. Therefore, my jackplate would have to be lowered. I'm trying to avoid drilling new holes and patching the old ones. If I went the 20" route I could go with a 200 or 225 SHO and save a little money. The 25" SHO is only available in 150 and 250.

I'd go with the 20" 225 SHO, change my signature, and save some money!

Yamaha is a smart choice to go. Not sure on which of the larger hp motor models to choose from but I use to be a Mercury guy and nothing is more reliable than a Yamaha. I have owned one Suzuki before and never again. Good luck on your replacement motor.

I would go with Yamaha or Honda.

I chose the Yamaha VMax SHO on my current boat and am very happy with it. I'm not sure at this point if the prop is spot on, but it does well like it is.

Thanks for all the feedback!

The dealer said I'll need to change my gauges too. Does anyone have the Command Link Plus? If so, pros/cons and is it worth the extra cost?

I've had 2 Yamaha's and LOVE them. Keep in mind this was back in the late 80's and early 90's. Bach then I was fishing the circuit and fishing 100 days a year and the Yamaha's never missed a beat. We blew a seal on the lower unit and ran it 5 miles and then loaded it up. Nothing but water poured out of the lower unit.
Back then I was running the 200hp ProV and it would push a 19'3" Ranger at 74 loaded.

I would u of go with the sho.