I did not like my
Mercury 9.9. I could not get used to the in-the-handle shift. Either it would not shift, I could not find the shift/start position or it would go from forward into reverse at awkward moments like coming alongside another vessel or
dock.
I picked up a two-cycle 15hp Yamaha in the
Bahamas and love it for the quick toque to get out of the "hole" and on plain. The counter to the toque is the increased gas
consumption. I have no experience with the
4 stroke 15hp Yamaha. I believe Yamahas have an excellent reputation for not needing parts, fairly reliable, just remember to emptly the
fuel bowl if storing the
motor so the gas does not gum up the jets.