Considering upgrade to 30 or 40 HP 4stroke

[JGeiger]

I currently have a stock 25hp 2stroke on my Tracker Panfish.

I’ve been wanting to upgrade for a little more power, add power tilt/trim and to avoid having to mix oil and gas.

New units’ price and delivery are through the roof, so I’ve been looking for a good used motor.

Are there any certain model years that are best to consider or best to avoid?

[EuropeanAM]

In that category, you're going to want to get an EFI 4-Stroke. Avoid carb models as they tend to have more problems with fuel system (although none of them appreciate sitting for long periods).

[csurp]

Look at power versus weight. For example, the Yamaha 30 and 40 HP weigh exactly the same. Spend a little more and get the 40.

[Extremeboating]

Get the 4 cylinder 995cc 40 HP Mercury FourStroke with the 2.33:1 ratio gearcase.

[JGeiger]

Why the 4cyl over the 3cyl 40hp? My boat is fairly light and the 4 cyl is much heavier. It seems that the 4cyl would drink more gas too?

[PatriotAW4]

Get a 2 stroke if you getting used, lighter and faster.

[EuropeanAM]

Why the 4cyl over the 3cyl 40hp? My boat is fairly light and the 4 cyl is much heavier. It seems that the 4cyl would drink more gas too?

There's no replacement for displacement.

[Extremeboating]

Why the 4cyl over the 3cyl 40hp? My boat is fairly light and the 4 cyl is much heavier. It seems that the 4cyl would drink more gas too?

You might think it would drink more gas, but in many instances you would actually get better economy out of it because it will require less power to get the 4 cylinder moving the boat. vs the 3 cylinder. The 4 cylinder only weighs some 40 - 50 lbs more. It's worth it.

There's no replacement for displacement.

This!