5 HP outboards

I am looking for a 5 HP outboard as an auxillary for my 50 year old Illingworth carvel sloop, and I would be grateful for any help. 2 stroke or 4? Which make? It seems to be a minefield out there with everyone pushing their own agenda. Thanks.

It's your servicing habits. Buy a four stroke in that size HP, but remember the reliability and longevity are entirely controlled by the skipper who needs to flush the engine from a hose after each use, winter servicing, etc. etc. Otherwise, buy the engine with the longest warranty possible!

(I've just ordered a Mariner for my dinghy, for what it's worth, but that's what my chandler trusts ... and I trust my chandler!)

I own 3 Tohatsu engines because I'm happy with the dealer and the price is OK.

I still think that for small engines that are demounted and carried about or laid in a locker two stroke is still best.

Remember that many 4hp engines are really 5hp with a simple to replace restrictor.

Tom