Boat Length and HP advice

[Dualie]

I have a Larson 20' center console that needs to be repowered with another outboard. I had a 200hp on it and never fully utilized the hp.

Question is what can I get away with, without being too underpowered and breaking the bank!

Would a 115hp work ok? I could still get on plane and cruise around.. or should i get a 130,140, 150..

also, would like to get into a 4 stroke too.

Here are some of the specs of the vessel.
-Dry wieght of the boat is 2200lbs.
-Max HP is rated for 200hp.
-66 gallon internal fuel tank.
-typically i cruise around the area for some fishing, and tooling around to some of the neighboring ports. No long haul cruising.


thanks in advance for any feedback!
Dualie

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Boat Length and HP advice

There are a couple of things you might consider. Would you rather have an engine that "loafs" while doing its work or one that has to be "worked" to get the job done. In your case you need to find the happy medium. The 115 is almost half the maximum rated horsepower and I think you would be very unhappy with the performance, especially with a higher than normal load. If one uses the 75% of maximum rated power as a guide that would say a 150 is the minimum for good all around performance. How the added weight of the four-stroke will affect performance is another factor, but probably is inconsequential. While the two-stroke may pop the boat on plane a little faster than the four-stroke, that too may be not be all that different. Check around your marina and see what others are running on a boat similar to yours.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Boat Length and HP advice

the add weight of the 4 stroke may call for smart tabs, to counter the weight.

 

[JB]

Re: Boat Length and HP advice

My rule of thumb is 70% of rated HP for satisfactory performance. That would be 140HP for your Larson, but it is pretty heavy for a 20footer so I suggest at least 150HP.

The new Suzuki DF150 is very popular with guides on Lake Of The Woods. Check it out.

 

[Scaaty]

Re: Boat Length and HP advice

I'm with JB on this...150 would be the sweet spot on a 20' CC

 

[Dualie]

Re: Boat Length and HP advice

Thanks everyone!!

I was trying to cheap out with a smaller hp motor and come to find out the cost diffrerence really doesn't amount to that much. Maybe a $1,000 difference.

So, I have been looking at a Suzuki 140 & Honda 150.
Both about the same price with installation and warranty.

I have never had or been on a 4 stroke boat. I really hope that it is worth the cash!!

Dualie.

 

[dingbat]

Re: Boat Length and HP advice

I agree with JB and raise him 5%

Have you ever heard a boater wish that they had less power? d

 

[Texasmark]

Re: Boat Length and HP advice

DeeJayCee Has the answer "Maximum HP is never enough". Point well said.

Mark

 

[troypolla]

Re: Boat Length and HP advice

I have a Yam 115 4-stroke. I like it. I agree you may want to go with 150. Good motor solid and mileage is good.