I happen to know quite a bit about this motor thanks to my repair source being the sole remanufacturer of all etecs with brp parts in the United States.87 octane recommended. Top end light load its probably the fastest one. Top end loaded Id go proxs. But all speed comparisons are largely worthless from a practical use stance at this point. Wanna go faster get a bigger motor. Definitely faster than what he has now. Ethanol kills all of them. If its an HO they are all programmed at xd50 ratios in 09.To me the 250HO comes down to this one statement- It runs as good or better than any of them when its running-In regards to the lower units- I have almost 600 hours on two lower units over 2 different motors- 200HO and 09 250HO- never had one go.Lower unit redesign in 08 resolved things to typical failure rates. Company that makes the gears now makes helicopter gears. I would consider this issue solved to industry standard.Major issue has been block reliability. If the compression is good AND the vacuum on the fuel system within standards you should be fine.I have 270-280 hours on mine and the block has been the “stumbling block”. On my 3rd block.Runs like a raped ape when running well. Problem is reliability in the block. Recent work has me optimistic as my motor was used as a test motor for a likely simple solution to a 3 year old problem.If he is very interested in the boat what I would do is this-1 have motor checked for compression and vacuum on the fuel system2 Needs to have a mechanic that actually knows how to fix this brand(as with any of them!)3 needs to have best or fpc warranty4 needs to be priced cheaper than merc or yamaha of equivalent hull5 needs to have new fuel bulb like mine installedI absolutely love my 250HO but I will call a spade a spade. The potential for greatness is there- but only if BRP stays focused. Time will tell and I will tell you!WardLast edited by clownshoes on February 11th, 2011, 4:32 am, edited 5 times in total.C.O.D. Jr. III
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