What engine

If I was buying an MF650 I would definitely consider the nuclear-powered option!

Seriously though, the main thing that might put me off an o/b on a boat like this would be the possibility of theft. Otherwise I would suggest that the o/b wins hands down on space-saving and usability.
 
If I was buying an MF650 I would definitely consider the nuclear-powered option!

Seriously though, the main thing that might put me off an o/b on a boat like this would be the possibility of theft. Otherwise I would suggest that the o/b wins hands down on space-saving and usability.

Electric outboards can be very light, it's possible to take them home with you.
I did have a brand new outboard stolen. Its the worst feeling
 
Our outboard is locked to the transom and has the Yamaha immobiliser system as a theft deterrent.. Failing all that if the thief is determined enough its insured.. I don't think the possibility of theft is enough of a reason to eliminate the outboard engine option if the best boat available is the outboard one..
 
Probably a change of tack, but what about the wee Arvor boats ?
Always liked them and are pretty affordable these days. They look solid.
After my comments about slow speeds and diesels, I've noticed a lot of these boats have a trolling valve.
What is this ? I'm assuming it allows slower speeds without the engine actually slowing below tickover somehow ??
 
Probably a change of tack, but what about the wee Arvor boats ?
Always liked them and are pretty affordable these days. They look solid.
After my comments about slow speeds and diesels, I've noticed a lot of these boats have a trolling valve.
What is this ? I'm assuming it allows slower speeds without the engine actually slowing below tickover somehow ??

I think the Arvor 23 is a real nice boat and seriously considered one before getting the Merry Fisher 645.
Internal accommodation is sacrificed for outside deck space and there much more functional,
The smaller Arvors are mostly VW diesel powered, there's lots on the web about their reliability but suspect it's down to not being used enough.
Best thing to do is trial both types and see what suits best.
 
I think the Arvor 23 is a real nice boat and seriously considered one before getting the Merry Fisher 645.
Internal accommodation is sacrificed for outside deck space and there much more functional,
The smaller Arvors are mostly VW diesel powered, there's lots on the web about their reliability but suspect it's down to not being used enough.
Best thing to do is trial both types and see what suits best.
Yes the VW is infamous for its turbo problems. An outboard (new, Japanese) is the most reliable, easiest to service, great for shallow water because you can trim it so high. Down side, vulnerable to theft, some problems in some places with petrol availability and no full bathing platform.
I love outboards but it's surprising how nice a full width bathing platform is.
 
Didn't know that about the VW engine. You would imagine they would be bullit proof at first thought.
Can't think why they didn't use one of their car engines and marinised it....unless they have, but can't think of a 5 cylinder vw diesel car engine. Only 4 cylinder, 6 cylinder and 10 cylinder.
 
And something I forgot, if you catch a rope on your prop you'll be very glad you have an outboard. When it happened to me it was a two second fix
 
Inboard diesel also makes it easier to heat the cabin, either by heater matrix from the engine or with a diesel heater. Not a deal breaker I am sure but a consideration nonetheless.
 
a few small points
petrol in anything but small amounts is not always sold so it pain to fill up the boat. This is far worse where we are ie west coast scotland. space in another factor so outboard wins there, servicing all is a big win for the outboard. the honda is dull but bullet proof, etec for fun acceleration, suzuki for the best acceleration of the 4 strokes. Yam if you are not sure what you want between the honda and yam as its a compromise.. so based on what you have said honda all the way
 
Top