When you’re buying a new outboard engine for the first time, you have so many options that you might not quite know where to start. The first step is to determine how you intend to use your outboard motor. If you’re a casual fisherman who wants a reliable way to get to your favorite fishing hole, you might not need the same kind of motor as a professional angler. There’s nothing wrong with upgrading to a top-of-the-line motor, but you should already know that the most expensive outboard motor isn’t necessarily the best. Before you make your final purchasing decision, be sure to do plenty of research. Here are a few basic questions that you should ask as you begin your search. To learn more, come see us at Bob Hewes Boats in North Miami and Pompano Beach, Florida. We also serve boaters in Miami and Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

What Size is Your Boat?

You’re going to want to make sure that whatever motor you buy is the right size for your boat. If the motor is too small, it will wear out more quickly and create some safety issues for all souls on board. Putting an oversized motor on a small boat can add undue stress to your boat's frame and can create overheating problems. Be sure to review your boat manufacturer’s recommendations.

Should You Buy a Four Stroke or Two-Stroke Motor?

A two-stroke motor is a good option for the everyday fisherman. They’re more lightweight, much easier to repair and available at a lower price point. A four-stroke motor is going to be more fuel-efficient and a better option for fishermen and water sport enthusiasts who plan on traveling longer distances. On the other hand, improved manufacturing processes and materials have more or less eliminated many of the traditional size and noise differences between the two types of engines.

How Much Horsepower Do You Need? 

Most outboard motors range from 50-300 horsepower. In order to determine the amount of horsepower that you’ll need, you should start out by estimating the anticipated total weight of the boat when it’s fully loaded with passengers, fuel and gear. The next step will be determining what you consider a comfortable cruising speed and the average length of your boating trips. Many manufacturers will provide recommendations on their website and offer head-to-head comparisons between the different types of available outboard motors.

To see our current inventory of outboards, visit Bob Hewes Boats in North Miami and Pompano Beach, Florida. We also proudly serve boating enthusiasts in Miami and Fort Lauderdale, Florida.