16ft with 20 hp ?

[travis46815]

I'm thinking of upgrading my boat, and was wondering what kind of speed I could expect with a 20 hp on a 5-600 lb aluminum boat. I fish a few limited hp lakes so the 20 has to stay. Anyone have any problems getting on plane? I'd like to stick around the 20 mph mark at least.

 

[airshot]

Re: 16ft with 20 hp ?

A lot will depend on how much gear and people you will have on board. With just yourself and minimium amount of fishing gear you should have no problem planning out, but if you have extra weight then it could be questionable. I had a wide and deep 14' with a 15 hp
and it was great with just me. With 2 people and gear it would plane if we balanced it out correctly. By myself..22mph, 2 adults and gear
17mph and yes it did take longer to get her up. I suspect you will be in the same position with a 16' and 20hp.

 

[Mi duckdown]

Re: 16ft with 20 hp ?

tiller? Semi v? John? I run a 25hp merc on a 16 semi v seanymph plenty of power before that had a 20 hp merc and that was fine also.

 

[travis46815]

Re: 16ft with 20 hp ?

It would be a tiller. Would rather have a deep v, as I fish bigger water often on the calmer days, but not sure if I can find one at a reasonable price. O have a 14 ft grumman now and just tried to upgrade it with the 20 hp, but I think with my weight and the extra weight of the new engine its too much. It was fine with the 9.8 but the 4 stroke 20 just throws the front waaaay up in the air and when it gets on plane I can't control it.

 

[metriccrescentwrench]

Re: 16ft with 20 hp ?

.... It was fine with the 9.8 but the 4 stroke 20 just throws the front waaaay up in the air and when it gets on plane I can't control it.

Have you tried adjusting the engine trim angle? Sounds like it may need to come in some. I don't think you mentioned what size engine your boat is rated for, but assuming you're operating withing the manufacturers maximum power rating you shouldn't be having that kind of handling problem.