Mercury EFI 4 stroke vs Mercury Optimax

[shootandfish1]

It has been a while since I've posted and have finally decided on what I'm looking for in a pontoon.

I'm considering a used Sun Tracker Regency 25 Party Barge and converting it to suit my perferences. The boat is for sell by a Tracker Dealer and a new engine (Mercury Only) is part of the package. Given a choice, which motor would you choose in the 90-115 hp range.

My intention is not start the old 4 st. vs 2 st. arguement, but to examine the pros and cons of ONLY the 2 Mercury engines as either one of these motors are going to be the best way to buy this toon price-wise.

In other words, the cost of chosing something other than the Merc EFI 4 st. or the Optimax would raise the price of this boat too much.

The motors are new, but not necessarily new production (2009). Is this a concern?

My understanding the 4 st. will be quieter, while the Opti will have fewer moving parts and will get better mileage?. Maintance is a issue as I live a long ways from a Tracker Dealer.

Which one would be better for extended runs of very slow speed runs, not really trolling, but long strechs of 'no wake' zones and shallow water-moving very slow?

Shallow water concerns-At what depth do you raise the motor? Does is matter if the engine is a 4 st. or 2 st.? or Maybe the ? should be at what depth is a 'no-go'?

Thanks for your comments?

[lakerunner]

I prefer the 4stk just for the quietness. The opti is a fine engine also. IMO you decide if you want to change oil once or possibly twice a season or keep oil reservoir
filled. Both will give you great performance.

Good luck and post some pics

[HandymanHerb]

The 2 stroke is lighter and less maintenance than a four stroke, even if your not using the 4 you still have to change the oil.

Water noise is usually louder than the engine

[dockholiday]

Like the 2 stroke myself. Both have their own merits. Like the hitch an go aspect of the 2 stroke, they are ready when you are. Once you winterize the 4 strokes most people don't want to just take it out for a day or two of good weather and rewinterize, and I don't blame them.
Was surprised how quiet the new opti's are. My 08 150 opti is much quieter than my old 90. With the new one I have to watch the tach to tell when it starts. Heard the verado is a super fine motor, but prefer the lighter 2 strokes.

[lakerunner]

When I had a 2 stroke and winter came I changed lower oil, ran fuel stabilizer and fogged the engine.

To winterize the 4 stroke I change oil and filter, lower oil and stabilize fuel.

To use in winter I unplug battery maintainer. hook up and go. With a winterized 2 stroke I would be reluctant with it fogged.