Re: Boats stated max hp is 50, can I use a 55 hp.
There are other issues than weight.
Just an FYI - An E-tec 50HP outboard will run rings around that 1977 55hp - throughout the entire power band.
Based on the known fact that these modern engines are significantly more powerful than their older brethren - where's the outrage from this forum?
My shop is in the insurance capital of the world...Trust me, Actuarians haven't just fallen off the turnip truck. I have had conversations with them about this very topic - we service their boats and I have customers with "Oversized motors" that have full insurance coverage". Yes, they have specific language regarding capacity plate and actual hp.
Here is very brief portion of conversations. Speed is an important issue as it can cause more damage, requires quicker decisions and countless more issues and 50mph seems to be where risk starts to greatly increase.
Whether the boat in question can do 30ph or 33mph with a 55hp is simply a VERY small risk in comparison to boats that can go SIGNIFICANTLY faster - thus the faster boat puts himself and others at much greater risk of injury. Based on their extensive data - it's a fact.
2 were from Travelers, 1 from Progressive, and they indicated they have enormous amounts of data that factors into the equations. They're in business to make money and use empirical data to set rates - not hysterical data. They are WELL AWARE horsepower ratings have changed over the years, and also WELL AWARE that a 150HP model could -in reality - be a 165hp.
So, based on risk to the public, driving a 50mph capable boat is MUCH riskier than the boat in question - so anyone that chimes in here about the "Danger to us all" in this situation - better be running go slow boats.
In addition - where's the outrage that a 150hp rated boat from 1980 could easily be equipped with a motor that could produce 165hp which would be 25hp "Overpowered".
Even on a modern boat, it would be 15hp over. For years Suzuki's were constantly pushing the max HP envelope. When you have your motor installed, do you ask for dyno verification that the as-built isn't "Over". Don't you want to avoid disaster? Obviously a rhetorical question.
The policies I've mentioned will cover the policy holders. Just as Jimmy Durante's(over the limit) nose was covered by Lloyds. Just as driving 40 in a 35 zone and running into a tree - your covered. Even the illegal drunks are covered.
In many parts of the US and many parts of the world- it is not illegal - to put a 55hp on a 50 rated. I also spoken to the Coast Guard and their view is that it is not illegal. Certainly, laws and interpretations are constantly changing - so updates are welcome.
It's the moderator's bat and ball here. They're welcome to run this forum as directed -your doing your job, which is understandable.
Overall, I think the all too common forum member self rightous response "I'm outraged you even suggested 5 over!" needs to be tempered a bit.
