Yamaha 250 or Honda 250

[Bluefin66]

Hi,
I have had my 2310 since I bought it new in 1997 and just discovered this forum!

I currently have a 1997 Yamaha 250 and it is time to upgrade to one of the new 4 strokes. My Yamaha has served me well, but on the few times I have needed repairs it has taken two to four weeks to diagnose the problem and cost me lots of money replacing parts that probably were not defective. Having said that, I must say that the motor has never left me stranded out to sea.

I have read a lot of positive things about the Honda BF 250 and the great milage they are getting, so I am leaning towards that engine.

I would appreciate your thoughts on the two motors.

 

[warthog5]

Just a FYI:

The new DF-250 Suzuki is Fly-By-Wire controls.

http://www.suzukimarine.com/~/media/Mar ... 250AP.ashx

 

[grouperjim]

Technology, quality/reliability, service availability are all big things to consider, however your hull was designed for a 2 stroke so weight may also figure to be a big factor as well. I would look around for guys with similar hulls as yours and see how they are making out with a heavier 4 stroke.

 

[Bluefin66]

I don't think the added engine weight will be a problem since I will not have the oil tank and I have moved the batteries up to the center of the boat. That should reduce the transom weight by at least 80 pounds.

 

[SBH2OMan]

I re-powered with a Honda but that was primarily because the local marine mechanic is a Honda/Suzuki dealer and he said that for a slipped boat he recommended the Honda over the Suzuki. The Yamaha dealer is an hour drive away. I've been THRILLED with the performance and reliability of the Honda so far (200+ hours) except for some corrosion on the lower unit caused by my &#$&^ hot marina, no bottom paint on the lower unit, and not having all the zincs installed (interferes with the permatrim). Probably more my fault than Honda's.

Personally I'd make the decision based on the mechanic I trusted most - what is he/she factory certified to work on?

I will say that with the Honda 225 and the stock Titan prop (not known to be great) I'm averaging 2.1mpg (statute) (11-12 gph) with 100 gal gas on board, three guys, and dive gear in gentle seas. Best is around 2.4 and worst (heavy seas, etc) about 1.8 mpg.

The OX66 250 ran about 1.5 mpg (or around 16-18 gph) and burned a gallon of $35 Yamalube every 40 miles. At a savings of about 4 gph x 200 hours a year, I'm saving 800 gallons a year of gas ($3,200) plus 26 gallons of Yamalube ($800). At 200 hours per year, I'm actually saving a few bucks after making the payments. The engine is literally FREE. Not counting the headaches and maintenance costs of keeping that old oil burner alive.