Thinking of switching

[billm_usa1]

Consider that the reeds in your production motor are over 20 years old and they bend every time the cylinder takes a breath they can get very tired and not have the same spring they did when new. The reeds are the heart and soul of every 2 cycle outboard motor. Better reeds will certainly help.

Another Item to look at is switching from a 4 blade prop to a 3 blade (less drag)

When was the last time your propellor was refurbished, blades sharpened, and surface polished ? costs about $150

What about adding a nose cone to your motor. Again ruducing drag
http://www.bobsmachine.com/products/...ne_Bigfoot.cfm
~$150 if you do it

Waxing/cleaning/repairing scratches on the bottom running surface of the boat is also something that will help.

Every one of these things will help and are cheaper than a new motor.

[hardestyeric]

I had a 1988 Johnson 200 and as long as I kept it below 5000 rpms it didn't use that much gas. Keep your foot out of it, take extra weight (tackle) out, make sure your set-up is right on, and make sure your prop isn't all dinged and bent.
Eric H.