How Much Hp

[dszjlane]

Hey Guy/Gals<br /><br />I have a older 17' Sangster Tri Hull Boat. I can't find a rating plate on it anywhere, so I'm puzzled on how largeof an engine I can safely bolt to the back of it. I currently have a 1965 Merc 650 which seems a little small for the boat, I'm thinking that some thing in the 80 - 90 hp rangewould work fine but not too sure. Any input, any one??

 

[zoom50]

Re: How Much Hp

Many will argue with me, but I think the lower end of the suggested HP will save you bucks and is the way to go. This depends on where you will be using the boat...In large bodies of water (such as Chesapeake), you will find in this size boat you rarely get to use the HP due to the waves. In rivers and lakes, it is a different story. If you use this boat in rough water and need to get to your destination a few minutes quicker, spend the extra money...Otherwise, spend the money on other goodies.

 

[11 footer]

Re: How Much Hp

With such an old boat, I'd make sure you have a solid transom before putting any more power on it.<br /><br />From the description of the boat, a modern 70 would be plenty, and MUCH faster then that old 65, which puts out only about 50hp in todays standards

 

[JB]

Re: How Much Hp

Yup. What Ryan said.<br /><br />I'll just guess that your boat is max rated for 90-100hp.<br /><br />I have found that most planing hulls will perform well with 70% or more of the max rating.<br /><br />A post-mid-80s 70 should be just about right.<br /><br />Good luck.

 

[jim dozier]

Re: How Much Hp

I have a 17 foot semi-V hull that's rated for 120hp. Up until recently I had an 85hp Suzuki that performed quite nicely and would make 40 mph. Something in the 75-85 hp range would not be over powered and would move you and a load along at a good clip.

 

[dajohnson53]

Re: How Much Hp

Try this. I did it for my boat, and it worked out to be right at where the builder had rated it.<br /><br /> coast guard horsepower guide