4hp Selva outboard - 2 or 4 stroke

[cmedsailor]

I would like to change my 2hp Honda (air-cooled, 4-stroke) with something stronger to push my 2,4m infatable tender as well as to have a back up engine for my boat (6 tonnes, fin keel) in case of emergency. I don't expect much from 4hp but when there is no wind I believe it could at least push the boat back in the marina (something the 2hp cannot do).

I have the choice between a new 2-stroke or 4-stroke Selva. Any ideas?

PS: I must point out that in general I don't use the tender often.

 

[sailorman]

I would like to change my 2hp Honda (air-cooled, 4-stroke) with something stronger to push my 2,4m infatable tender as well as to have a back up engine for my boat (6 tonnes, fin keel) in case of emergency. I don't expect much from 4hp but when there is no wind I believe it could at least push the boat back in the marina (something the 2hp cannot do).

I have the choice between a new 2-stroke or 4-stroke Selva. Any ideas?

PS: I must point out that in general I don't use the tender often.

2 T every time & simple to maintain

 

[VicS]

Many people would opt for the 2 stroke on the grounds of simplicity and weight.

Four strokes though are much more ecomomical on fuel and more environmentally friendly.

Depends where your priorities lie, I think, and the relative condition and price of the two units under consideration.

General oiliness of a 2 stroke might suit something seldom used.

4 strokes must be carried and stored only in certain attitudes to prevent leakage of the engine oil. You cannot just chuck 'em in a locker any old how like you can with a 2 stroke.

No messing about mixing fuel with a four stroke.

Probably not concerned with performance issues but a 2 stoke generally accelerates more quickly than a 4 stroke of the same power.

Your choice I think ! No overall benefits one way or the other.

 

[Fire99]

Four strokes though are much more ecomomical on fuel and more environmentally friendly.

But are they really more environmentally friendly? When you counter balance the actual amount of fuel used each year and then count an annual oil change & oil filter for the 4-stroke which the 2-stroke doesnt need, i'm not so sure.