I like my props. I like being able to trim based on the water conditions, chop, etc. The heavier boat also rides like a dream in stuff that I'd have to slow down or carefully plan to drive thru so I don't slam down. I also have trim tabs (which you can add to any boat) that help as well. Plus, I like the throaty sound of the V8.
Fuel consumption has been similar to a little less compared to my yamaha, maybe I drove the yammie harder, who knows.
Yes, the props are there and yes I shut down when pulling someone out of the water, which you'd have to do with the jets as well or else they'll never catch you. Once anchored, they're no worse than the jet nozzles to kick...don't ask...they both hurt like hell.
True neutral - We had to shut off the Yammie for "neutral", otherwise we'd have to keep dodging boats at the ramps.
If I were in your shoes, I'd ask "who else will be driving my boat?". If only you, then either way you go will be fine from a manuevering perspective. However, if your buddies, or someone else will be occasionally driving I don't think I'd trust them with a jet to come pick me up out of the water (don't ask me here either). Driving an IO is more like a car in lamens terms and you have the outdrive to act as a rudder when in idle, on a jet there's nothing unless you have fins, but even with them it's a slower response.
I winterize and change my own oil, impeller, etc. so any maintenance cost increase is minimal. Now when it's time for a gimble bearing or something major that'll be different but that's a while down the road.
to each their own, and I'd certainly entertain a jet again, but for now I'm an I/O guy. Still love y'all though!
