Motors
Over the years, I have tried about every motor on the 23.5. Heck, I knew of a dealer long gone of course who even dared to put a 3.5 on one boat for the Chesapeake Bay which I about croaked.9.9 engines either two or four stroke are good engines but I do not recommend them for a several reasons. First, I find that if you apply full power, the bow raises up thus slowing you down as this is a displacement hull not a plainnning hull. You have to reduce power. Secondly, the cost for a new one is much more. Thirdly, the wieght alone and the additional maintenace costs. However, I have found that an 8 hp is the best engine for either a 23.5 or 240.Tohatsu which also builds the Nissan and even the small Mercury engines has announced their 8 and 9.8 hp engines(both have the same block) are now being offered in four stroke which comply with the EPA 2006 standards and Carb 2008 standards(3-star rating) emission reugulations. They are lighter weight than 9.9 engines. Weight of these engines will be appx.81 pounds. That should be a good engine for the 23.5 if you want four stroke. I am not advocating any engine manufacturer but it has been a good mfg. for me as a dealer ever since I put one on the very first 23.5 August 15, 1992 at Smith Mountain Lake.Crazy Dave Condon