pontoon motor advice needed

[peke]

I have a 24' pontoon boat with a 40hp motor. (Much too small) What does everyone think about the various motor companies out there? People seem to buy a lot of Honda motors, but I heard their parts are very expensive. The outboard repair guy I go to only likes Evinrude and Mercury. Can anyone give me the good, the bad, and the ugly on motors. My boat will take up to a 115 hp.

Thanks, Peke

[Ranger09]

Peke when it comes to an outboard and its all high. Shop labor is $85.00 an hour and parts are high. Its kinda a preference for most. When I bought my 09 Ranger I wanted a BLACK motor. Well I ended up with a Yamaha which I had never had or any dealings with one either so I was somewhat skeptical, but have loved it every since I put it on the water. If its related to water and it says boat anywhere around, on, or near by its gonna be expensive...Honda like any of the other motors have been around for a longtime now and they are like a few cars, some do not need much done to them and some need alot. Just do your yearly maintenance and they all will last you for many enjoyable hours on the water.

[Cray]

I now have a Yamaha and love it. Had mariner,even rude and Johnson all good motors but if I was buying new it would be a Susukie. Have never talked to anyone that owns one that has had problems or would trade.

[Winger]

Had a 2000 yamaha 4 stroke that was absolutely trouble free. Buddy of mine has a 2000 Suzuki 4 stroke that has been a great motor as well. Only problem with suzuki is that there doesn't seem to be many dealers around here for buying/service.

Thing about 4 strokes are that they are quiet and fuel efficient.

[Stinkfinger]

I've got a Yamaha 4HP on my 12 ft V-bottom and it has set for over a year without starting. Today I put fresh gasoline in and started it on the 3rd pull.

[Scott S]

Have used Johnson, Mercury, and Honda. Two stroke and four stroke, good service from all. The Honda is my favorite.
My few problems have been from the service provider(s) instead of the motor. If you are comfortable with a certain shop maybe going with their brands are the better choice.
Scott