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Message 5 of 5
Posted by member Paul stevens on Monday 15 December 2025
Hi Robert,
Thanks, I've taken on board all you have said.
I have been on the internet looking at all makes and specifications.
Owners feed back is the best recommendation.
The Suzuki 70/80/90 HP appear to have the same engine. Difference in power boosted by fuelling no doubt.
I agree with your thought's on trim tabs, big and with simple controls.
I had a Suzuki motor bike many years ago, very quick, very reliable.
You mentioned Rochester, I purchased my first boat from Rochester Marina 1980.
A merry Christmas to you and all living near the Artic Circle.
Paul.
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Message 4 of 5
Posted by member robert sneddon on Saturday 13 December 2025
Hi Paul
When i purchased the Family Pilot back in 2012 it came with an old 40hp which i used for the first two years. It was not powerful enough for sea use but the boat was purchased at Rochester and had been used along the Medway.
I had a chat to my local marina engineering company and they managed to identify a 2004 Suzuki DF70
which had come off a damaged sports boat with little hours use. Best decision i made, plenty of power if needed although i must admit spend a lot of time 5/7 knots. Noise level are good and can hardly hear it at tick over.
The Suzuki has been bullet proof and if i had to replace i would certainly consider another. It gets a yearly service.
I went for Bennett 12" tabs which work well however with hindsight maybe should have went for the next size up as the common opinion seems to be to fit the largest possible. i just went for the standard toggle switch control as i know how many seconds to takes for fully/half deployed etc.
Very straightforward to fit.
Hope this is helpful
Robert.
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Message 3 of 5
Posted by member Paul stevens on Friday 12 December 2025
Hi Robert,
Thanks for the reply. Did you buy your Suzuki, or was it on the boat when purchased ?
How do find the noise levels? If you had to replace the Suzuki, what would you replace it with?
I am going to fit trim tabs and have been looking at Bennett Tabs.
What size do you have?
Cheers,
Paul.
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Message 2 of 5
Posted by member robert sneddon on Thursday 11 December 2025
Hi Paul
I think you need to be looking at a 70 or 75HP engine. I personally have a Suzuki DF70 hooked on the stern and gives me plenty of power.
You don't mention if you have trim tabs fitted but I would definitely recommend them. I've got Bennett Tabs fitted and getting on the plane is always available conditions permitting.
Hope this helps.
Robert.
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Message 1 of 5
Posted by member Paul stevens on Sunday 7 December 2025
Hi all.
I am replacing my engine. It's a Mariner 50 Big Foot. Nothing wrong with it but I want to get up on the plane.
I don't want to buy an engine only to discover it is not the best option for my Bosun.
I would really welcome any advice from forum members.
In anticipation.
Paul.
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