What Kind of Motor Do You Need for Your Boat?
Choosing the right outboard motor for your boat is one of the most important decisions you can make. Power, fuel economy, and versatility – all of these factors determine which outboard is right for your needs. When you start shopping, you’ll find that there are plenty of options on the market and it can be difficult to figure out what kind of motor you need.
Luckily, you don’t need to be an expert on outboards to pick which one is best for you. That’s what we’re here for! Hampton Watercraft & Marine, with locations in Hampton Bays and Eastport, New York, is your local outboard motors dealer, so we’ve rounded up the top things to consider below. When you’re ready to buy, or if you have any questions, get in touch with us. We are proud to offer a wide selection of outboard motors for sale from some of the most trusted brands.
4-Stroke vs. 2-Stroke
The two main categories of outboard motors are two-stroke and four-stroke models. In two-stroke motors, a carburetor or an injector pushes a mixture of oil and gasoline into the cylinder via an intake valve. At the same time, the exhaust valve opens up, and around 20% of the fuel is released without being burnt. Some two-stroke engines have direct fuel-injection that sprays the fuel into the cylinder with more accurate timing, while the piston covers the exhaust valve to make sure that fuel isn’t wasted. Two-stroke engines are lighter in weight and more powerful, but they are less environmentally friendly and much louder.
On the other hand, gasoline and oil never mix in four-stroke motors. Pure gasoline is burnt using a cylinder to circulate oil through another system. Four-stroke motors can be more efficient. They are also heavier and more complex and expensive to repair. However, they are likely to last longer and run more quietly than their two-stroke counterparts.
What Horsepower Do You Need?
The horsepower of your outboard motor will affect the boat's performance, efficiency, and the water activities it can handle, so you will want to pick the option that best suits your lifestyle. Some people think bigger is best, but that's not always the case. Instead, you'll want to let the size of your boat influence your choice. If the outboard motor is too powerful for your boat, it can damage the frame and transom. You also want to avoid buying something that isn't powerful enough to get you around.
A great place to figure out the ideal horsepower is your owner's manual or the National Marine Manufacturers Association Certification Plate inside your boat’s stern. This will give you your horsepower rating, which you can use when shopping for an outboard motor.
How Many Outboard Motors Are Required?
Many people wonder if it's better to buy one or two outboard motors. Generally speaking, one outboard motor will be sufficient for most purposes. The main reason to buy an extra motor is to have a backup in case the other one breaks down. You'll be able to rely on the second outboard motor to get you back to shore, rather than having to wait around for someone to come help you.
If you’re on a tight budget, then you should invest in a single motor that is powerful, durable, and efficient. For example, some people might choose to get two 150hp motors when they could just get a single 300hp motor at a lesser cost. Keep in mind that if the two motors provide the same horsepower, then there isn't much of a difference between using one motor or two.
Whether you’re looking for a portable model to troll around the pond or a 4-stroke engine to get out on the river, Hampton Watercraft & Marine is here to help you find the right outboard motor for you! Stop by and let our staff show you our selection of high-quality outboard motors for sale in Hampton Bays and Eastport, NY. We proudly serve our patrons in Eastern Long Island.