Florida Outboard Motors (Air Cooled) Opinions?

[Roger Long]

I just ran across these outboards which look perfect for our application in which weight is the most critical factor due to the aft deck configuration:

Small Outboards New & Used Motors - Choosing the right small outboard on a limited budget and avoiding the pitfalls for first time buyer

Half the weight and almost half the price of a Lehr. I could live with gas for that.

The 4 stroke 2.5 hp is only 2 pounds heavier than the 2 stroke.

Any experience with these units out there?

 

[DavidM]

I have owned a few air cooled outboards over the years as well as a few water cooled outboards from major manufacturers. The air cooled outboards are generally built cheaply. Also they tend to go through rings quickly due to the high cylinder temps and then have problems running well in hot weather.

Spend the money and deal with the extra weight of a good outboard. You will be happier long term.

David

 

[kchace]

Also, air cooled outboards tend to be much noisier than water cooled.

Ken

 

[FF]

A used 4 hp Evinrude or Johnson will be better long term as parts will exist for decades.