Changing Outboards

[davidml]

I currently have on board an un-reliable 6Hp Yamaha 2-stroke outboard of unknown vintage (10 years+), c/w remote controls and remote fuel tank, that I would like to swap for a 4Hp Mercury 4-stroke, which is approx 12 moths old. What parts of the remote gear and remote fuel tank would I be able to re-use and what new parts are likely to be needed. Also how / where can I get rid of the old 2-stroke mixed fuel from the tank? We are currently sailing on Coniston so I think that the newer 4Hp should be powerful enough(?)
Thanks for any advice.

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[Joe_Cole]

I don't know about the remote gear, but the tank should be OK though you may need a new connector to fit on the new engine.

To be honest I wouldn't bother getting rid of the old two stroke mix, just use it up on the new engine. It'll smoke a little, but it won't come to any harm. Just keep filling up with petrol and the old stuff will be more and more diluted as time goes by. Or use it in a lawnmower. Or give it to someone with a 2 stroke outboard. Don't use it in a car 'cos it won't do the catalytic converter much good at all.

Without knowing your boat I can't comment on using a smaller engine; but at two thirds the power of the old one you should be able to judge. Unless the old engine is really clapped out the new engine will still only produce two thirds of the power; just because its newer it won't alter that.

Joe



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