I just saw the infomercial on these two stroke direct injected outboard motors. Very impressive if you believe it all! They claim to be far superior to four strokes in just about every category: power/torque, fuel economy, weight, scheduled maintenance and even emissions. The only category not mentioned was cost. In fact, it begged the question why four strokes still exist for outboards, and cars for that matter. My question is what are the downsides? Anyone familiar with Evinrude E-TECs care to comment? Thanks!

 

2 strokes are generally the lightest motor available and with the fewest moving parts. That's why they tend to be most prevalent in the boating industry, and so entrenched.

4 stroke outboards only came about because of the EPA regs and the fact that 2 stroke oil is burned with fuel.

4 stroke disadvantage is weight due to extra moving parts.

Actually, all current model year engines are almost twice as efficient as 5 years ago! If you are interested in this topic, look a little deeper at http://www.bwbmag.com/ They are always testing new boat & engine combinations, objectively!

If I had a choice, direct injected 2 stroke is the way I'd go, and Yamaha, Mercury, or Evinrude E-Tec.

Tony

 

I am currently restoring a 1965 Boston Whaler Nauset in my barn.......
When I am done this baby is getting an ETEC 90 on the stern, have some friends with them an they love the motors......