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4-Stroke Outboard Motor Vs 2-Stroke Outboard Motor
The decision to purchase an outboard engine is getting more selective as technology improves. As of now the majority of consumers are faced with several options when deciding upon what kind of outboards will best suite them.
When faced with this decision you must prioritize several features that are prevalent in each motor. For example, two-stroke motors are lighter, faster (in most cases) and less expensive. Four-stroke motors are cleaner, smoother, and more economical. Many people who run in lakes and rivers prefer 4 stroke boat motors because they make great trolling motors and meet the 2006 EPA mandated requirements. Others prefer 2 stroke engines when the need for top end performance and acceleration takes precedence. This is not to say that two-stroke engines cannot troll or four stroke motors are not fast. It's just a matter of preferences, features, and benefits that attract customers. Regardless of what you choose to purchase, if you use due diligence and do your research you cannot go wrong, Below is a table of pros and cons for both motors:
| 2-Stroke Outboards | |
| Pros* | Cons* |
| Lighter | More Pollution |
| Accelerate Fast, In some Cases More Top End | Smoke |
| Purchase Price Less Expensive | Must Mix Gas with Oil (Non Oil Injection Models) |
| Easier to Repair | Rougher Idle than 4 strokes |
| Have Been Around For Almost 80 Years | Noiser than Four Stroke Outboards |
| Very Strong Used Market | Harder to Start (in some cases) |
| Parts Availability | Carburetors gum up if not used often |
| High Resale Value, High Demand | Spark Plug Fouling |
| Simple Design Meaning Less Things To Go Wrong | - |
| 4-Stroke Outboards | |
| Pros* | Cons* |
| Quiet and Smooth | Heavy |
| Good Fuel Economy | Often Expensive to Repair |
| Great Trolling Motors | Not As Many Trained Mechanics Yet (Growing Rapidly) |
| No Oil/Gas Mixture | Often Expensive to Purchase |
| Smooth Idle | Technology Still Being Improved |
| Less Pollution | Very Limited Used Market (Although Growing Rapidly) |
| Accepted at Any Body of Water | More Parts to Malfunction (Technology Improving)* |
| Future Production will Be all 4-Stroke or Similar | Most Not as Powerful as 2-Stroke Rated At Same HP* |
| Very Reliable | Harder to transport or position in storage w/o a stand |
| *These are based on Seatan's Comparisons. We in no way are responsible for purchasing decisions influenced by the material found on this web page. Please do your own research prior to making an outboard motor purchase. This article does not compare direct fuel injected 2 stroke models. | |
Summary:
What should I buy, a 4-Stroke or a 2-Stroke?
Well that really depends on your boating situation. Here is list that may help you decide which motor is appropriate for you.
Choosing a Four-Stroke Outboard Engine
l When you are required to operate in a "4-Stroke Only" body of water
l To use as a lake trolling motor when smooth and quiet operation is a priority
l Larger budget to spend on a motor
l When weight of engine is not an issue
l When you feel as though noise and smoke are serious factors in your purchasing decision
l To use as a kicker or emergency back up motor on your boat.
l If you don't want the hassle of mixing gas and oil.
l If you are dissatisfied with two stroke performance
Choosing a Two-Stroke Outboard Engine
l When you are not required to operate in a "4-Stroke Only" body of water
l To use as an emergency back up or kicker motor
l Limited budget to spend on a motor
l When weight of engine is an issue and you want the most power for the weight.
l Familiarity with engine repairs
l Limit budge on repair costs
l Hard usage and abuse and you want something that can be modified, repaired, and adjusted easily
l Speed, acceleration, top-end, and performance are issues.
l Interested in finding a good deal on a used motor. There are more used 2-stroke outboards available.
l If you want motor that all marine mechanics are certified to work on.
You really cannot go wrong with either choice. Both motors have their advantages and limitations. Right now you are safe to purchase a 2-stroke motor in most places and not have to worry about being excluded from boating. There are some lakes that require 4-stroke motors but the majority have not adapted these mandates yet. We suggest that you review some of the information on this page as a source of knowledge and refer to Seatan dealer when it comes time to purchase an outboard motor.
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