I have researched and checked on many forums but all information was 8 years old. Can you guys give your opinions on what 40hp Outboard Tiller is best for a 16' skiff hull under 400lbs. I'm on the wait-list for the SM Heron and want some insight on what you guys think. I prefer holeshot rather than speed I know this depends as well on the proper prop.
I wish they would revamp the etecs, as I have had really good experiences with them. They need to redesign the lower unit and mid-section on the 40, 50 and 60. In my opinion, that is what makes these models a lot heavier than they need to be. That and offer them in a short shaft.
If you’re going new look at Suzuki or the Tohatsu. I picked up a mint yamaha 50 two stroke for my heron and I think it’s one of the best motors for the setup.
I have been reading up on the new Suzuki tiller motors- I am looking at the 30hp. With power tilt/trim and elect start- they appear to be the lightest weight in their class - around 165lbs. It would be hard to go wrong with a Suzuki, Tohatsu or Yamaha in my opinion.
Call Powertech and ask them what stainless props are available for that Suzuki 30hp. They make a few, but all of them chatter like crazy. They don't even recommend using them on that motor. Suzuki designed a sweet little motor and then completely dropped the ball on the lower unit design.
Most modern outboards are all pretty reliable. The differing options/weights/resale value is what sets them apart IMO. For example, the Mercurys have the all in one tiller handle that changes from F to N to R with the twist of the throttle handle, tohatsus come in short shaft up to 50hp?, prop selection limitations for the Suzuki, etc.
Just don't go buying some Franken-motor like the Neptune
If you are considering the 40hp tiller Tohatsu (EFI), why not get the 50? Its the same weight at 209#
If you want hole shot go with the Tohatsu tldi or any 2 stroke for that matter. They get up and go! I have the yami 4 stroke 40 on a SUV 17 and had the Tohatsu tldi 40 on a gen 1 copperhead. We ran them together several times and the top speed was the same on both boats but the hole shot wasn't even comparable!
its also 300+ pounds WITHOUT the batteries. Total weight with 1 battery (I guess they want you to use their batt which is heavier than the motor) = 688lbs.
I remember a time when we were all calling the Japanese stuff junk. They learned well about quality assurance. I know the guy who owns Mudhole. He imports a lot of stuff from China. He says they will build whatever you request and want to pay for. In his opinion if you ask them to build a Stella they can do it. It just costs more.
Because of its torque characteristics, a 2-stroke will always give the best holeshot. Among new motors, the Etec is the only 40 hp 2 stroke available, but it weighs about 30 lbs more than a Tohatsu. The best motor for holeshot would be an older 2-stroke Yamaha, which would also be the lightest. The downside would be fuel consumption and the fact that finding a good older 2-stroke is a hit and miss proposition.
The hull color is shark. The only things I would change on my setup is remove the tiller console and maybe go a shade or two dark on the deck. It’s super bright and will blind you without sunglasses on.
I have a 30 Etec tiller with electric start and t&t on my Heron lodge. I am overall very satisfied with the performance of the motor setup. It’s no speed demon at 27.5 mph loaded up with 2 big guys, but it’s a very nice motor. 30 hp etec also comes with prop, tank and has a pull start back up.
The hull color is shark. The only things I would change on my setup is remove the tiller console and maybe go a shade or two dark on the deck. It’s super bright and will blind you without sunglasses on.
Didn’t have one put on it due to the creeks that I fish in. When I start using a push pole I’ll probably just throw my yeti on the back. Eventually I’ll add a removable platform.
Tohatsu all the way... 15" shaft plus power tnt.... ran a 4stk Sunday and was impressed.... it was a 50 but same setup as the 40
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