How big is to big???

[FelonyZed]

I've got a friend who has a 1974 Starcraft 16ft. aluminum. Its rated for 85hp. He needs a motor and found a 140hp, and was wondering if he could install that motor without causing damage to the boat. The boats transom is in good shape, and the boat is solid. Should he do it?

 

[Fl_Richard]

Re: How big is to big???

I would say a 90 or maybee even a 115 would be ok if the weight was OK but I think a 140 is pusing it just abit.

I'd look for another motor

 

[Jeep Man]

Re: How big is to big???

The HID plate on the stern will list the maximium horsepower allowed. To exceed manufacturer's recommendation would be unsafe, possibly or probably cause damage to the transom, put you on the wrong side of the law in some states and leave you open to litigation if any incident occurs. Still want to use the 140 ?

 

[airframer]

Re: How big is to big???

jeep man's right on the money. tell your friend he needs to buff up on your local state laws and talk to a mechanic about over-loading a transom

 

[metriccrescentwrench]

Re: How big is to big???

No way would I even think about putting a 140 on a boat rated for 85.

Tell ya what though, I've got a sweet running Johnson 90 that I'd swap for that 140.

 

[ScottinAZ]

Re: How big is to big???

140 would be outside my comfort zone as well. I would also try to keep it as close to the rated HP as possible, just to keep the weight and balance good in the boat. I understand there are legal issues as well, but handling would be my primary reason for not wanting to go that far over the rated hp for the hull. case in point, my 50 horse 'rude weighs about 180 lbs, and my 115 weighs in at a hefty 300. There is no way I would consider strapping an extra 120 lbs on the rear of the boat that has the 50 on it now (but I bet it would go like a bat outta hell if I did)

 

[Les Robb]

Re: How big is to big???

If you put that big a motor on an old boat you might have a submarine the first time you try and launch her. Keep looking guy that's too much of a stretch.

Good luck

 

[ezmobee]

Re: How big is to big???

I have that boat. You would not want to put a 140 on it. Highest I'd go would be a 90. However a 3 cylinder Johnson/Evinrude 75 is really the ideal motor for that boat. Great horsepower to weight ratio.