while I have a perfectly good running 50 I can't justify the extra expense. (Believe me I have tried!!!
You and I both, Jeff. Plus, the bulletproof nature of the Tohatsu works against us in this aspect.
Another thing we should keep in mind is that a 50HP Tohatsu (or any other brand, for that matter) bought new on a Mac which is primarily used as a sailboat (as most are) is likely to have fewer hours than other powerboat motors of comparable age.
Thank you all who have participated in this discussion. I will try to answer what I think you might want to know. Yes, I did ask to have it pulled, prep'd AND Delivered half way. Yes, there was no problem to have it relaunched for a spin around the lake. No I did not do that. Having made a detour to Lyons CO., The Anchorage, to see a 96X dealer/consigment at recently lowered $14,995. we had a comparison. On a 1 to 10 scale I would give it a high 7 low 8. The motor, don't judge a book by its cover, ( the words Ugly Duck come to mind) was assured to start and run good and that he would order and have delivered to us the new cover. Single most important factor, the OWNER. In my line of work you tell a lot about a Journeyman by his work and looking at his work the Journeyman. My wife and I both agree on one thing for sure...Dik and the boat. We have previously own a 90 23 Com-Pac and a 23 Tremolino both with no sea trial...one out of two and in time hopefully two out of three an't bad. The trip, two long days, one scare in Lusk, Wy., my truck(Chevy K1500 5.7L) did not want to restart after refueling ( third time the charm) did not shut it off until parked at home(waited 30 minutes and started right up). The boat/dual axle elec. trailer pulled great. Wish I had my Ford 250 Diesel back. Averaged 17mpg out, 10mpg back. 60/65 mph Wy, 50/55mph SD. No 10 year old boat will look like it just rolled of the floor room. It has its wear, the motor has its age, the trailer needs paint and I need to firgure out how I want to make the electrical connection to my 4pin connector. Electric brakes might not ever be used(use it or lose it). If I get one season and then some.... on the motor Great! I will deal with it, new, used, big or just a pusher only time can tell. My biggest concern is...I hope we love the BOAT and accept it compromises and then it's only money and you can't take it with you. I just came in from starting my Truck. Thanks again
