MCF

Dealer service has been an issue for the boating industry going back to the 1970s at least. This same story, dealers don't stay with the line, companies go in and out of business, companies get bought up by other companies. Perhaps the latest example is Evinrude leaving the market this year, and what happens down the road a couple years? I have two E-TECs myself so it is a concern that gets more of a concern for me every year. Older long time dealers continue to age out or just go out of business at least in my part of the world. Or on older equipment they just tell you they don't want to tackle it(I am talking a twenty year old outboard). With how expensive new product has become, you would think things would be better but they never have been. Like everything else there are exceptions to that and you should frequent those dealers and businesses.

Had a 17 Starcraft several years ago(late 90's boat)-aluminum came with the 55 as part of the factory package. Was more than adequate to handle things. But like everything else, no one ever complains about too much power, so take it from there.

Have owned several aluminums including a 22ft. I have a glass 20 ft now. There is no comparison to the ride of glass because of weight. Aluminum has gotten better as they have improved over time. But everyone has their own preferences. Towing kicks gas mileage down, often into the 12 mpg range or less. Not going to get around that one. And sure weight is also a factor in this but the vehicle is working harder to cover the same ground.

I would target end of October-some years you can go later. Keep an eye on the weather forecasts of course.

Three suggestions for you, Laings Outboards North Tonawanda NY, Parma Marine, Parma Ohio, (long time OMC dealer) and MarineEngine.com I have had success getting obsolete parts through all of them for Evinrude and Johnson.

Seal failure is a common occurrence in lower units. Usually some fish line gets wrapped around the outer seal causing an eventual failure.