Repowering Advice 1973 22-2

[artyreef]

Greetings,

I am in the process of re-powering my 1973 22-2 which for the last 39 years (2 sets of engines) has been powered by twin 90 HP Yamaha 2 stroke engines.  The current pair are 1992 TLRQ models. I obviously would like to re-power with the same engines, but as you all know, they are no longer available in the U.S. and in many other countries due to air quality and water pollution issues.

The Yamaha 90 HP  two-strokes are one of the lightest weight to horsepower ratio outboard engines ever produced, in that horsepower range, weighing in at 261 pounds/engine or 2.9lbs/HP.  If I want to stay with two-stroke technology the only option to consider is the Evinrude ETEC 90 at 320 lbs, which in twin configuration, would add 120 pounds to the stern of my boat.

My other option is to re-power with twin 70 HP Yamaha four stroke engines, weighing in at 253 pounds each, which would weigh in slightly less than the current configuration.

My question(s) to my fellow Classic Aquasport aficionados:
Have any of you re-powered a 22-2 with twin 70 HP Yamaha two strokes?
If so, are you happy with the results?

Your kind assistance in providing information on this is greatly appreciated.  Thank you! 
Ben, Miami Beach, Florida

[wingtime]

I think there is one or two members running twin 70 or 75hp two stroke Mercs.

I personally would go with twin Etecs (fist choice) or if you can find a pair of late 90s 60 degree "eagle block" 90hp or 115hp (same motor) carburated Evinrude or Johnson Ocean Pro/runners.  Gobs of power an torque.

[Capt. Bob]

Light reading to get your attention:

https://classicaquasport.com/smf/index.php?topic=11395.msg140836#msg140836

https://classicaquasport.com/smf/index.php?topic=14971.msg146697#msg146697

[artyreef]

Capt Bob,

Thank you for the links to the previous discussions regarding power and performance on the various models of the 22-2.

Looks like the consensus is the lighter the stern load the better, which is the motto I have lived by for my 1973 22-2 for the last 45 years.  So I will sadly say goodbye to my twin 90 Yamaha 2 strokes and embrace twin 70 Yamaha 4 strokes which weigh in at slightly less than the 90 2 strokes.

[fitz73222]

 I'm very interested to see how she will perform with twin F70's so please keep us in the loop as you move forward with this project.