To repower or not repower 1982 25xf

[gcapehart]

We have a great 25XF with an older Johnson 225 hp 2-stroke. Compared to the 4-strokes she is loud. The boss wants a quieter engine. The four strokes are heavier. Do any of you have insight on a new engine for our boat? Are the Hondas best? Are Suzukis/Yamahas faster? Do the Mercurys have better hardware as in stainless steel, etc;? Is one brand more fuel efficient? By the way the 1989 Johnson still runs great. Considering the differences, advantages, trade-offs, might you give us your thoughts.     Gary and Sue

[RickK]

Some say life is too short for a noisy motor.  I say that if you can build something in front of the engine to block the noise and not stop air from getting to the motor, you might be able to milk it out a few more years.  I have a full enclosure on my 230 Explorer and sometimes I leave the very aft of the enclosure up to block the engine noise and it lowers it quite a bit.