I’m purchasing a new 20 hp outboard motor and looking at the Yamaha vs Tohatsu. I’ve done a little research and from reviews it seems the Tohatsu is the better choice because of considerable price difference with little difference in performance/reliability. Any opinions one way or the other?
Hard to find parts for Tohatsu
Scout 185
A Tohatsu motor is a Nissan motor. They are GREAT motors and I never had an issue finding parts. I once had a 60hp Tohatsu on a 17’ Key West.
I don’t think it’s hard to find parts for them at all. Pretty sure small Tohatsus are the same as small Mercs.
tohatsu builds all the small motors for mercury
they build an awesome little motor, but they still have a lot of corrosion issues
I have been running a Tohatsu 18HP 4 stroke on a 14ft jon boat since 2005 and have had only one problem. The starter solenoid is rubber mounted and one of the wires broke right where it enters the solenoid. Had to replace the solenoid. That was 4 or more years ago. Other than that it is easy to srart in all weather (even pull start when battery was dead), strong as an ox and can take a pounding. Money well spent.
A wise man once said “Do as I say not as I do” Good advice when I tell you that.
Thanks for the replies…think I’m going with the Yamaha just for peace of mind. Next issue is used or new…saw a used 2011 20 hp manual short shaft Yamaha for $1900 versus a new same model at around $2800-$3000 after shipping/Pre-delivery Inspection. Looked at NADA appraisals for these and gave some pretty good values so price seems fair. Interestingly, the 2011 appraisal came in higher than '12 or '13…only the '14 was higher. Anyone have ideas why? I tried seeeing if there was any wiggle room on the price but the seller said no, firm because engine like new. Would be a considerable saving with the used but new is NEW! Thoughts?
is there any warranty left on the used motor?
if not, its 4 years old with no warranty
is that worth $1000