4 strokes have a bit better ease of start and reliability for the kids to
operate, although on 4 strokes you have to pull the cowl to check the oil.
Buying used is always a crapshoot, and I can't tell you yes or no on that
since I don't know your mechanical background or the services available in
your area. If it was me, by the time my kids were 13&15, they'd know how to
fix an engine and I'd buy the used 2 stroke since it's that much simpler=
If your kids aren't mechanics, well, I'd advise new if it's not a burden. If
the boat's for them to play with, you might consider 20hp, they could ski
behind that at that age.

"Donald MacQueen" wrote in message
om...
this motor would be used by my 13 and 15 year old daughters
on a 14 foot aluminum boat on a lake. i would have to take it
off the boat for winter storage.

2 stroke is still legal.

any difference in ease of starting between 2 and 4 stroke?

would you buy a used motor? how old? what to check besides
the compression?

thanks for all the replies.

"HLAviation" wrote in message
link.net...
First question, is a 2 stroke legal for use in all your intended
operating
areas? No, then 4 stroke. If Yes, then next question is, Do I have to
remove
this motor regularly? If the answer is no, then 4 stroke. If yes, then 2
stroke.

"Donald MacQueen" wrote in message
m...
I am in the market for a new motor. One guy
tells me the 4 stroke mercury is far superior
to the 2 stoke. Another tells me that the 4 stroke
is a new motor which probably doesn't have all
the manufacturing glitches worked out which is why
it comes with a 3 year warranty instead of the
1 year warranty for the 2 stroke.

someone please un-confuse me.

thanks.