opti,e-tec,yamaha

[cc-rider]

That statement about "any" 2 stroke will foul plugs is simply untrue. I have the Ranger 1850 with a 175 ETEC and I troll all the time. And I have taken BRP's promise of no maintainence for 3 years to heart and I've not changed plugs at all. The motor purrs like a kitten.

cbar - so you have some real stats.....my boat with the 175 ETEC trolls at about 2.5 MPH. I have a 17 pitch 4 blade BRP cyclone prop. 50 MPH top end. Holeshot is excellent with this set-up.

When deciding between 2 stroke and 4 stroke...there are only 2 real categorical differences:
1) 2 stroke will have noticeably better torque and hole shot
2) 4 stroke will be noticeably quieter

Other than that....you have to start to dig into the differences between brands. But nobody has over come those 2 rules of life yet for 2 or 4 strokes (yes....including the Verado).

[BW]

I love my 150 etec! Granted I have a T-8 kicker for trolling, but have used the 150 when it was a little windy. Can stay in that low 2mph range. Idles at 500rpm, so no need to buy I command in my opinion. I have the engine interface cable connected to my Lowrance and it gives all the engine date for only $49.99.
Some will say if your going to run a lot of hours on your main engine to go 4 stroke but I test drove a Reata with a Yam 150 before ordering mine and was not impressed with the hole shot one bit. Once it got up and running it was fine. You could prop it down a bit to improve the hole shot, but lose top end. Your preference. I chose the low maintenance route with the etec. The winterization feature is very slick!!!

[Senderofan]

Originally Posted by BW

I love my 150 etec! Granted I have a T-8 kicker for trolling, but have used the 150 when it was a little windy. Can stay in that low 2mph range. Idles at 500rpm, so no need to buy I command in my opinion. I have the engine interface cable connected to my Lowrance and it gives all the engine date for only $49.99.
Some will say if your going to run a lot of hours on your main engine to go 4 stroke but I test drove a Reata with a Yam 150 before ordering mine and was not impressed with the hole shot one bit. Once it got up and running it was fine. You could prop it down a bit to improve the hole shot, but lose top end. Your preference. I chose the low maintenance route with the etec. The winterization feature is very slick!!!

No need to buy i-Command at this point in time....the current promotion includes two 3.5 inch gauges and all wiring. Also included in the deal is two additional years of warranty coverage...under BRP's Best plan. The only reason I know this....I repowered with a 175 e-tec.

Good Luck,

Wayne