Etec or Merc

I don’t think you can go wrong with either on a P2 as they’re both strong and it’ll be a rocket ship regardless, I assume you have dealer support with both? The sound of the V8, not having to burn oil and the cost would swing me towards the Merc as you can add extended warranty for the difference I imagine.

Cfergy:

Ordering my P2 soon. Opinions on 2 stroke Evinrude VS 4 stroke Merc?  I know that’s probably like a Chevy VS. Ford questions but I have been impressed with what ive read and heard about the E tec but it seem pro xs motors are everywhere. I havent bought a boat since 1996 so alot has changed and anyone with recent knowledge is better than mine. I have read alot on the internet but you know how that is, some 1st hand experience not from a dealer rep or sponsor would be great.    Thanks

Sounds like you have been out of boating for a while Cfergy.  Take note that I am not a dealer rep or sponsor but I would point out that the “4-stroke” motors are the future of boating today. 2-strokes are going to be out of production in the future.  The V8 Mercury ProXS is the the way to go.  Mercury is no longer making 2 stroke motors and I can’t believe that Evinrude won’t be going this way too if they want to stay in business long term.
The choice is yours so just providing that information for you to consider.

I know that the Evinrude is a good motor from what others say so yes it just might be a “Ford or Chevy” decision for you.

Ricochet15:

Like others have said pick based on dealer support. There are more Mercury dealersbif needed. I’ve been in a P2 with the Evinrude G2 and Merc 4 stroke pretty equal loads. IMO the Evinrude was a bigger beast out of the hole by a noticable amount. I would call the top end a wash, with different drivers, temps, etc.

I think the steeper gearing in the Rude does give it an advantage in holeshot.

I’d get a Mercury 4 stroke as it usually doesn’t run out of top end speed like an Etec.  Etec has a lot of torque on the low end  through the mid range, but once through the mid range it just won’t seem to pick up that last couple mph or so.  I also believe that when you need to resale, the Mercury will be a better choice.   Good luck with you decision!

Just got a Caracal with a G2 on it was worried about it but the hole shot and throttle options along with a $2k rebate and 7 yr warranty very impressed so far. Had a Eyra and don’t need to go 80 anymore love having the wider deck. be careful with the G2 putting the boat on the trailer you may end up in the bed of the truck, lol.

I would heed bcb suggestions.. Mostly on who are you having work on it if said warranty work were to arise. You could have the best warranty out there but if its in the shop all the time or someone who takes forever to do the repairs… You’ll be wishing you were on the water.

With all that said, personally I think the new 4s – v8 is a great option on the p2. If you did the spring promotion you could get some extra warranty to boot, for your self of the resale advantage.  I have not heard of alot of issues from that motor, for something so new thats pretty impressive.

If you are looking for a good evinrude dealer, skyline up in wilkesboro is who to call they swear by them, and do alot of hondas as well. They have a eyra there now with a 250 rude thats pretty sharp looking.