Looking to replace a 175 h.p. mercury

[chris gantt]

Which 175 h.p. outboard is the best for a typical 20' bass boat? I'm not worried about top speed, more about dependability and fuel economy...

[Lockjaw]

If you can still find one, a Yammie HPDI 2 stroke is available in 175. Or else you are stuck with a Merc Pro XS or an Etec. All are proven engines, the opti might get the nod on fuel economy though.

[David]

I think you can get a better price on a 175XS than a 150 HO, plus you get 25 HP. I was thinking the same purchase in the winter, and at the time Jaco's looked as good as any. As things turned out, I went used. Cheapskate.

[martinc]

Forget the two strokes! You really need to review the 175 Suzuki four stroke. Amazing performance for a four stroke. You will not be able to see or hear it running. It will NEVER be as fast as a two stroke but your back pocket will really like it. Thank's Martin

[obrien]

How will the back pocket be helped by a 4 stroke? It will not perform better and the opti has been proven to get better fuel mileage, not sure how the etec does. The 4 stroke will cost more up front. Then there is the parts availability with the Suzukis.

[stokernick]

Jacos/ProXS 175 Optimax