200,2.4.2.5 Help

[tmull44]

O.K., I'm confused. What are the major differences in these motors? I'm looking for an outboard boat, proably with twins and I'm a little confused about what I want. Power, reliability, and speed are all important. Is an older engine rebuilt by a great shop,
like Jay Smith's (seems to be great, and no I don't know them) every bit as good as a newer model? E.F.I. or carbs? Thanks in advance for any help. I owned 1 200 merc. on a Checkmate before and it was fine. Where will I get the most bang for my bucks?

[vector mike]

If you are going to be puting on twin motors I assume that it is a fairly big and heavy boat. The 2.5's have alot more torque that you will probably need. The EFI's will produce more power but will cost more to fix if something goes wrong. A rebuilt motor by Jay or some other reputable person would be as good as new.

[tmull44]

I haven't picked a boat yet. Proably something in the 24-25 ft. range. Orginally thought about a cat but I live on the Chesapeake bay and have been told TOO SMALL so maybe something like a Checkmate, Warlock, Sonic, Pantera. With that being said I'd like to run in the 80 mph range also.

[Outboards Unlimited]

If you are wanting relyability and speed you need 2.5s. I have run 2.4s in drag stuff and they are fine ole moters, but I would take a 2.5 200 over a 2.4 225. Tourque Torque Torque! The 2.5 is very easy to rebuild and the parts are very available. I have had recent trouble finding stuff for my old 2.4s because everyone current is messing with 2.5s. If you want to run 70-80 and 24+ feet you need to go with 2.5 litre 225s or 260s if you can find em. The 260 will be a bit radical but it will get you the speed that the 225s will defenitly lack. I am a carb freak but I also enjoy working on stuff. If you want an easy starting motor with big power get EFI!!! I hope this has helped and if you need any rebuild or remanufacure guys names I will be happy to help.. I am a boat mech too, so I am not speaking with out some experience..
Jeff