Best motor for a Zodiac cadet 340 solid

[reacon]

New to the boating thing, I used a Troll 30lb Electric Motor this summer, and rdy to jump to a small motor for my Zodiac. I know the boat can handle upwards to 15hp, but being a senior and retired, I was thinking something I can lift and attach to the transem. Perhaps a 5hp-7-hp, but not sure should it be a long shaft or a short shaft. Your input would be great, and what would be a good price for a second hand motor.

Thanks,
Fixed income Grampy.

 

[Vic.S]

Almost certainly a standard (aka short) shaft ... but you can measure the transom height. Standard/short shaft motors suit 15" (381mm) transom height. Long shaft suit 20" (508mm) transom height
The AV plate should be just about level with the bottom of the transom or very slightly lower. If its too high you might starve the pump of cooling water and /or suffer ventilation of the prop. If its too low it can cause unnecessary drag and likely to be grounded inadvertently more often. Boat trim and handling problems too with more powerful engines

Up to you to choose a motor you can lift and fit. You are the one who best knows your capability.

Generally, but not without exception, 4 strokes are heavier than 2 strokes. There can be big variations between brands too

Flipping things seem to get heavier as the years go by.

 

[reacon]

Thanks so much Vic.S, good advise. Now to do some research on some used 2 stroke types...(Evinrude, Murc.Johnson,Yamaha, etc...5-7 hp.)