I realize THIS IS NOW AND i WAS BACK THEN. mY BEST ADVICE IS BUY service. i GREW UP WITH ELCO AND JOHNSON TILL i STARTED CHARTERING AND REALIZED THE LOCAL jOHNSON DEALER WAS LANDLOCKED. i BOUGHT BOAT AND MOTOR FROM oUTDOORSMAN ON THE bridge in New Bedford Harbor. Any mechanical device is suseptical to murphys law and as a charterboatman i wanted an assurance of service. broke down one night at gay head. reed valve swaollowed. towed to new bedford next am, outdoorsman crew hauled boat out, installed duplicate engine back in water mid afternoon, picked up party and fished that night. three days later 'my engine' rebuilt, reinstalled back fishing.cost of loaner engine-zero-. had similar problems twice again, same deal. loaner engine four hour turn around and swapped back engine when ready. service, service, service. sure you can buy on price and wait for repairs. bottom line. if you want to go, buy local, from reputable dealer who agrees in advance that service is numero uno!!!