Very similar situation for me, tough to start, but never stalls, runs fine, idles fine. I troll with a new Tohatsu 9.8. Good luck on your search for No. 4

How do you like the tohatsu? Im thinking of buying one when they go back on sale.

I’ve got a great running two stroke but a electric start 4 stroke sure would make things easier without the extra gas tank in the boat and the ability to charge batteries while Trolling

Tohatsu Kicker
 

I really like the Tohatsu 9.8 kicker. It is very quiet while trolling at 2 mph. I can steer with the kicker, or use the big Merc as a rudder.

I tested my max speed with the V20 and it is around 5.5 mph +/- for conditions. Max fuel burn is 1 gal/hour. I carry 2 extra 3 gallon tanks in the cuddy. That gives me a good range in case of an emergency, and a little ballast up front.

If you have the extra $, I would opt for the power tilt as well. Mine is 90 lbs with 20" shaft and electric start. Power tilt will add a few lbs.

Research from a couple years back told me that Merc uses Tohatsu for outboards under 40 HP. I am a red, white and blue guy, but no american options these days.

$2,400 two years ago from Dinghy Concepts in Detroit.