Used and abused question. Stern drive vs ob

Hi all. First of all I just want to say I'm not really able to go through all the different threads that have been posted about this discussion over the years because I have limited internet and have already had a bit of a look. I'm after simple answers and constructive criticism.
I'm a 3rd yr apprentice boat builder in australia and am trying to design a boat to build in a few years after my time. I'm after a 90-115hp outboard to go on a 5.5-6mtr bow rider, aluminium construction for salt water use. I've go almost no actual time under my belt on the water and the place I work for builds ferries and the such. No small toys

I'm pretty sure on a yamy or merc ob but before I choose I want to go through all my options. This includes ib/ob like Volvo penta and mercruiser and yanmar. I've no idea about the benifits of an ib compared to an ob so would like to know all. This includes purchase price (no idea how much an ib costs) servicing costs, if you need to go to dealers to service, life span, ongoing corrosion protection needed, fuel economy etc. thanks for the help

 

We'll that was a huge convo. Stuff it I'm fairly set on a suzuki df140a ob unless someone can sway my opinion.

 

Well Voodoo, you've pretty much summed it up yourself, which is likely why there's not much to offer.

How much engineering and hydrodynamic understanding do you have?

Aren't we all, but often they're much more complex then we'd like, particularity when involving a few different engineering disciplines.

The best advise you can get is to get out on the water and explore the various advantages and disadvantages of each drive type and manufacture preference. In most locations, you'll find two makes that are common. One will be the cheapest, so lots of these, but one will be the brand the locals find works best for them. This is probably the one you want. The pro's will be using these, so check out the fishing docks, as these guys make their living with them and will have decided preferences.

 

Buy the outboard that is most popular in your area, For example, Suzukis are great outboard, but in Belize, for example, it is much easier to get yamaha parts and mechanics.