Nissan vs. Honda/Honda vs. Nissan

[Jon6436]

I'm thinking of replacing my 21-yr. old 6-hp Johnson "Sailmaster" (2-stroke) outboard. I'm considering either a Honda 5-hp or a Nissan 6-hp. Specs. show that, in long shaft version, both weigh about the same as the Johnson. The Johnson runs fine, but it seems to lack thrust to adequately power my 22-ft sailboat into strong winds, current, or waves.I would appreciate any comments from owners regarding experiences with the Honda 5 and the Nissan 6 (4-stroke). Thank you.

 

[Rick Webb]

Maybe All You Need is a Prop

Six hp should be plenty for a 22' boat. Check this site while you are looking for a motor.http://www.onlineoutboards.com/m_tech_info.html#

 

[Kris]

check compression

IF THE ENGINE IS 21 YEARS OLD, MAYBE IT IS TIRED

 

[RichH]

Johnsons hardly ever wear out.....

They mostly need to have the carbon cleaned out of the piston ring grooves. Take the spark plug out, put in a half cup of Marvel Mystery Oil (get it from an auto supply) let soak for several days, then invert and drain the oil. Pull the starter rope several times, redrain, reinstall the plug .... This should remove the crud in the ring grooves and allow the rings to freely expand to the cylinder walls ... should greatly increase the compression.When was the last time you retorqued the cylinder head?????

 

[Bill18593]

Nissan vs. Tohatsu

Nissan and Tohatsu are the same engine. Save some money and get a Tohatsu.5-hp 4-stroke should be plenty on a 22.

 

[AL Hughes]

Out board motors

The mercury, Tohatsu, and Nissan 4,5,6 hp are all the same motor. The only difference is the electronic ignition. I have a 6hp 4 stroke long shaft Tohatsu and I love it. Two to three pulls on the starting rope and its running. I have a Catalina 22, the Tohatsu moves my boat at five to six Knots. The fuel consumption extremely small, I have yet to go through the 3 gal. tank. One thing that I have found is that you need to change the spark plug every season. Fair winds, AL

 

[david scott]

Nissan 6hp long shaft 4 cyc.

Size wise(weight) its ideal for the C-22. I have used mine in different conditions and it has performed well. The only down side is a higher noise level and more vibration then previous outboards I have owned (yamaha and honda)of course the later have been two cylinder and heavier. Good Luck!

 

[Tsehum Pete]

5 Horse Honda

My 9 foot Zodiac tender Tiny Tula (tender to Tula my Oceanis 390) is powered by a 5hp Honda. This engine is great and should run forever. The only thing you have to watch is to make sure you run the engine for a few minutes after unhooking the gas line from the gas tank. I have found that accumulations of leftover gas in the carb eventually gum up the carb and it starts to run like shit. It is amazing how long the engine runs after unhooking the hose but it is well worth it in reduced tuneups and continued smooth running. It also fits easily into Tula's starboard cockpit lazerette locker. As you can see, I like that engine.