Small outboard engine

What are the main product attributes that you look for when deciding
which small outboard engine you want to purchase? How big of a factor
is price in your decision on a scale of 1 to 5 (1-not a factor at all,
5-major deciding factor)?

Defining small as under 15 hp;
I have always found out everything that I could about reliability and ease
of use/starting with any brand/model year that I have picked up, if possible
taking it out and running with it for a while, especially at trolling speeds
and then checking the plug(s). After I decide that a particular outboard
falls into my "want" list I then will rate price at about 1.82 :-) on a
scale of 1-5. Keeping in mind that I have fished/run outboards that have
been up to 50 years old and never experienced any major problems that would
have stopped me. And yes, I have found more than a few with idiosyncrasies
that I passed on. It seems that most outboards in this size class can last
just about forever with only basic care and maintenance and for this reason
I have never bought a new motor, always taking advantage of someone else's
desire to have the newest and shiniest toy on the block.

Cast far and tight lines
Bob
(Currently running with a 1978 Evinrude 7.5 hp)

"Andrew" wrote in message
oups.com...
What are the main product attributes that you look for when deciding
which small outboard engine you want to purchase? How big of a factor
is price in your decision on a scale of 1 to 5 (1-not a factor at all,
5-major deciding factor)?

5 for sure!
"Andrew" wrote in message
oups.com...
What are the main product attributes that you look for when deciding
which small outboard engine you want to purchase? How big of a factor
is price in your decision on a scale of 1 to 5 (1-not a factor at all,
5-major deciding factor)?