Raz,
Historically speaking, your Honda 8 four stroke is not an old motor.  
Unfortunately it's just another example of what I've been trying to say for the  past 
two years: the technology in the current line of four strokes isn't  
dependable. Their is proof to support my argument. Most proud owners won't admit  that 
they are having problems with them.
As Bill suggested, with the little use sailors actually give their motors,  
you might want to try the 2 cycle. I know of five list members that have the  
Tohatsu 8 and they swear by them, not at them. They start first pull every 
time.  Even my wife can start it. They weigh about 52 pounds and burn a gallon of 
gas  an hour at full throttle.
 
Rummy