I asked this question over in the Ranger forum and have ZERO replies. I thought maybe you all could give better insight.
My 1997 Ranger 461VS currently has a 1996 Evinrude Intruder 150 (original engine) on the back. I'm thinking about powering and after a lot of online reading I'm leaning toward a Suzuki DF175. The hull is rated for a max 175HP so I figure I might as well go the top while I'm at it. My 'Rude is still in good shape, but at 24 years old and unknown hours my thought was to upgrade and sell it while the engine is still good rather than waiting until it's nothing but scrap.
Reliability and longevity are my biggest concerns and I'd also like to know how the engines perform on a 19' bass boat hull. This is the boat I'm going to own for many years to come so I want to be sure and get an engine that will last. I know people always push Mercury and Yamaha but I'm pretty well set on the Suzuki. I'd like to get first hand experience/comments on how Zukes run on a bass boat hull and if the weight is a factor. My current engine is a little under 400lbs and I know the Zuke will be over 500lbs so I'm curious how that will effect the ride and handling of the boat.
Thanks for any info you all can provide.
Kevin