Outboard recommendations

[Tin-Can]

Thanks for the recommendations and input.
Weight is definitely a concern, as a 100+lb 9.9Hp with myself and gear about puts me at, or over, the limit of the little aluminum boat.

You are looking for 1 motor to use on 3 boats, is that what I understand ? One  that is easily moved from boat to boat. I would agree that a Merc 4, 5, or 6[font] [/font]hp 4 stroke are the best options. Mercurys are reliable motors (I just used one for 13 years), and there are shops all over Utah that have good Merc mechanics.

Thats right, would be the primary motor on the two small boats, and a kicker/backup on the runabout.
I think I have settled it to a Merc or Tohatsu 6hp. Now I just need to get the money saved for it!

Not sure how close you are to the Layton area, but I just traded a 15 hp 4 stroke Merc in on my new 25 hp. That 15 hp is 13 years old, but it was still running well. Freds Marine gave me a fair trade value on it and said it needed a new impeller and the oil, oil filter, and lower end lube changed, but they may still have it, and you may be able to get it at less $ than a brand new one.