Honda 225 needs work or Merc 225 ready to go.

[76Tbyrd]

Hey guys. Been reading the message boards for a while but this is my first time chiming in. I've got a dilema that i need your help with. I have a chance to purchase an extremely cheap (less than $2,500) honda 225 that needs a little work (impeller, tune up, etc) or a merc 225 optimax ready to run. Each of these have been previously used by the Coast Guard and were maintained by them. I'd like to put it on a 21-23 ft cc and fish primarily in large lakes and bays with only 1-2 offshore trips per year. Would you guys advise to go this route? I figured that i could buy the outboard and then find a salvage boat and swap the engines. Is this too much outboard for a boat of this length? Any help would really be appreciated.

[fishfalcon]

In my experience, needs a little work means I know how much it is going to cost to fix it and it is not worth that to me. A boat with no working motor is just a very expensive (and frustrating) float. On my old boat, I had a very tempermental motor which caused me to get a new boat and motor so I could enjoy my trips to the coast. 225 HP should be plenty to push a 21-23 ft center console, but you want to stay within the manufacturer's specs for the hull.

[tin can]

Tbyrd, don't know where you live, but I don't know of a Honda service center in the Tally area. Just something to think about.

[charlie tuna]

The shop i use in Lake City is a Honda shop and the commercial guys from both coasts haul their boats over for this guy to work on. Been using this guy four years and he has always been excellent customer service, and good prices. Waynes 386-752-2665

[MudDucker]

I don't want no black motor, unless it is made by someone else and mercury stickers were put on it!

Having said that, I would have a mechanic check out the motors to tell you which is in the best shape.

[silverking]

Shields Marina in St. Marks is a Honda service center.

Weight and balance are big factors to consider when you're looking at boat models. The heavier weight of the four-strokes will sometimes drop the stern of older boats designed for two-strokes to the point where the scuppers won't drain and the bow rides high. Also, most insurance companies won't insure a boat that exceeds its recommended horsepower rating.

[Speedy]

Honda dealers in the Tallahassee area are Sunshine Boats and Shields Marina. Also Wefings in Eastpoint and Jacks Boats & Motors in Perry.