Vehicle Tips with Jackson Brown Auto & Marine - A 2-stroke or 4-stroke outboard?

POWER: Ask the experts about what outboard will suit your needs.

Considering a new outboard? Here are some things you need to know.

First I would like to explain the difference and pros and cons with 2 and 4-stroke outboards when compared to each other.

Two-strokes are smaller, lighter, have less moving parts and have more power than 4-strokes of the same displacement. They are popular due to their light weight, small size and high power output and ideal for fishing, skiing etc. 

Four-strokes are quieter, smoother, more refined and generally more economical at idle speeds and can run without issues at low rpm’s for extended periods. They are really good if you are into game fishing or trolling or want a very smooth and quiet ride. The purchase and servicing costs are generally more for a 4-stroke.

In the 1990’s 2-stroke emissions were not meeting the latest US regulations and were in danger of being banned in favour of a 4-stroke outboard, however manufacturers invested a lot of money and came up with various methods of reducing emissions that all required precise fuel injection. You may have heard of Mercury Optimax, Evinrude ETEC and Yamaha HPDI outboards – these are all the latest fuel injected style outboards and produce more power, use less fuel and have low emissions that conform to the latest regulations.

Due to NZ’s lack of emission regulations, conventional carburetted outboards are still available new and are considerably cheaper than fuel injected outboards.

If you have any questions or comments please come in or call us and we will be happy to help with any information or recommendations you require to make a decision, we can supply and fit a range of new and high quality used 2 and 4-stroke outboards at competitive prices and have finance available.