AK -

I have the Yamaha T8 4 stroke, electric start, with the powere tilt/trim. This is a great little motor. The shift on the handle is ideal for how I like to fish. I had a Merc handle shift before and liked it, but overall would probably choose the way Yamaha has done it, all things being equal. I like the positiveness of it. I have had wrist fatigue in certain situations with the Merc before. The 8hp powers way down which should help reduce the need to be kicking it out of gear frequently while in slack water.

Runs smooth and quiet, is cold blooded for the first couple of minutes (my buddy has the Merc 9.9 4 stroke and his has the same coldbloodedness) and starts great.

Good luck.