Go above motor ratings?

[Someguy564]

I bought a small 8 ft pelican bass raider on craigslist. Today, I found a great deal for an 3.5 hp outboard motor. However, my little boat is only rated for 3 hp. Would it be ok to go .5 hp over the rating, or would I run into problems.

Thanks

 

[5150abf]

Re: Go above motor ratings?

Make sure your transom is in good shape and I wouldn't worry about a 1/2 horse, technically you shouldn't ever exceed that rating but it is by such a small amount.

I personnally wouldn't worry about it, the real problem comes when you go 30-40 or more beyond the rating.

See what others have to say but like I said I would do it without worry, as long as your transom is in good shape.

 

[Boss Hawg]

Re: Go above motor ratings?

Do a search & you'll find a lot of threads on you question-
I do however agree with 5150abf

 

[Someguy564]

Re: Go above motor ratings?

Ok, the guy sent me pics. Worth $65? Please respond soon, thanks.

 

[Bifflefan]

Re: Go above motor ratings?

Ok, the guy sent me pics. Worth $65? Please respond soon, thanks.

if it runs, its worth 65 bucks. if not... well then thats on you.

 

[Someguy564]

Re: Go above motor ratings?

Ya, the guy says it runs, but he doesn't know the maker of the engine. Any thoughts?

 

[5150abf]

Re: Go above motor ratings?

I think I would keep looking, if ti was a Jonnyrude or a Merc I would get it but an off brand older motor like that you are going to have problems finding parts.

That may be one but sure doesn't look like any OMC engine I hav eever seen.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Go above motor ratings?

you will find it really hard to find parts for it. pass on it, and look for a Johnson, Evinrude. late 1960's- now little 3 hp are hard to destroy.

 

[airframer]

Re: Go above motor ratings?

just paint over the .5 the weight is going to be the same or close enough anyway. i have a '59 johnson 3hp that runs and can get parts easy from right here on iboats

 

[Someguy564]

Re: Go above motor ratings?

Thanks for the help guys.

I sent the guy an offer of 30 bucks, if he takes it, great, if he doesn't, no big deal, I'll probably find a better engine anyway.

 

[JB]

Re: Go above motor ratings?

I am usually one of the first and loudest to screech against overpowering, but different ranges of HP present different conditions.

I used a borrowed 4HP DeLuxe Johnny temporarily on my SportYak II because it had gearshift and my 3 didn't. The SportYak II was rated for 3HP. I never used WOT and I had no trouble, but it was just enough heavier to be a pain in maneuvering and handling. I went back to the wonderful little JW-21 3HP.

I would avoid those air cooled singles in favor of water cooled twins in any case.