If your going to be removing the engine and laying it down for storage, transport etc, the 4 stroke is out. Even with draining the oil all the time, it will make a mess and oil getting past the rings will be problem. With the 2 stroke, just disconnect the fuel line and run it until it stops. Yes, you will have to mix the oil with the gas, but no oil changes. One of those luggage carriers attached to a class 3 hitch will hold that motor outside the van. 2 strokes are a bit smoky but they develop power every piston down stroke. Also, most use reed valves so there are no cams, lifters, rockers, etc. That is why they are so light.

Dennis

----- Original Message -----
From: Christopher Gronski <gronski@GMAIL.COM>
Date: Thursday, September 8, 2005 10:16 am
Subject: Carrying a large outboard in a Vanagon (plus some NVC outboard motor 2 stroke vs 4 questions)

> Hi Volks,
>
> I was wondering if anyone brings an outboard motor along on camping
> trips. The boat I bought will take a 25hp motor and I am trying to
> figure out where I'm going to put it if I get one. Anyone carry a
> large (25hp tiller steering) outboard in thier van? If so where? What
> about gas cans?
>
> I have done some preliminary research and it seems like 2 stroke
> motors on average weigh a lot less than 4 strokes. Indeed I found out
> the 2 stroke yamaha 25hp weighs only 106lbs. Its the lightest 25hp
> engine I've seen so far. If anyone has any outboard recomendations I'd
> love to hear them.
>
> As for 2 stroke vs. 4 stroke it like one gives up fuel economy for a
> two stroke in order to save weight over a four stroke. Plus in a 2
> stroke you may have to pre mix your gas and oil (but a lot of 2
> strokes have oil injectors to get around this...). Any other pros and
> cons for 2 vs 4 strokes?
>
> Thanks,
> Chris
>