I have been reading the mag for a couple of years now, but I am new to the forum. I have purchased a '80 20ft checkmate as my new project. It is rated for 215hp by the BIA plate. My family has always run Merc outboards, but there are few more choices now days. I am looking for opions on what motor you guys recommend. I am looking at engines around the 2000 year range as I can not afford the $20k for a new power plant.
200 or 225hp (this is the easy question)?
Envinrude, yamaha, or Merc?
Four stroke or two?