How much power difference between 115 HP and 130 HP

[riptide09]

While I realize this is a difficult question to answer in general terms I will ask it regardless.

My current ride is an '03 Four Winns bowrider with a 115 HP Johnson. My boat is rated for 130 HP maximum. My uncle has a pontoon without a motor and my 115 will work on it fine. I am considering selling my Uncle the 115 and getting a 130 however if there is not going to be a noticeable increase in performance I am not going to do it.

Specifically with my current prop I have no problem pulling a skier with a driver and a spotter. Add a few more people in the boat and some gear and popping up a skier, while not impossible, is a lot harder. I speak from experience as the guy on the end of the ski rope.

 

[JimS123]

Re: How much power difference between 115 HP and 130 HP

IMHO you would be wasting your money!

 

[reddogg]

Re: How much power difference between 115 HP and 130 HP

Your motor seams to do the job, but if you want to hook up your uncle than I'd drop a 130 on your boat. You will have more power and speed and the joy of helping a family member

Red

 

[Sea Rider]

Re: How much power difference between 115 HP and 130 HP

If it's same block and just a updated model from a 115, slight more speed/torque, if block is heavier, will add more weight to boat in which case slight better speed will be overshadowed.

Happy Boating

 

[crb478]

Re: How much power difference between 115 HP and 130 HP

I doubt that you will notice any difference in pulling a skier out of the water. You will probably pick up a couple of mph on the top end, but the bottom end will be almost identical. You will also use slightly more gas.

 

[riptide09]

Re: How much power difference between 115 HP and 130 HP

Thanks for the replies. I figured it was not worth the effort. I am also concerned on a new (used) outboard. I know my motor and I know it is good. Good compression, always starts right up, good conditional overall, no work required. A new (used) motor could very well be a lesser quality outboard than what I have. I am thinking maybe a prop change might be a better solution.

 

[Sea Rider]

Re: How much power difference between 115 HP and 130 HP

Pick the prop which gives max rpm factory listed for that engine, will have best top speed, but will lose best hole shot...can't have both on a single prop. Or have 2 props for different boating applications.

Happy Boating

 

[Bamaman1]

Re: How much power difference between 115 HP and 130 HP

I agree that it's really not worth the investment in a new engine, unless you're just wanting the new ETEC technology. And, technology comes at a pretty high price. It's a shame your boat is not rated for a little higher horsepower, as a 150 hp motor might give you enough kick to make the additional investment worthwhile. You have a good quality boat that deserves proper power.

Good luck!