Is a 7.5hp big enough

[zed2500]

I have a 14' 50's vintage Larson aluminum boat that was given to me with a 7.5hp Sea Horse. I haven't been able to get this motor running good yet so I haven't had a chance to put it behind the boat. Currently I am running a 6hp Evinrude. Needless to say it works but I can't get it on a plane. Will this 7.5hp do the trick, or should I just start looking for a bigger motor. If so what size would you suggest.

This is my first boat, and don't want to over do it. There are lots of 15hp Johnsons/Evinrude on craigslist in my local area.

Another quick question, my 6hp uses a plastic prop, would I benefit from a different prop?

Thanks

 

[kenmyfam]

Re: Is a 7.5hp big enough

9.9 hp should do the trick loaded properly. Depends really on what load you will be carrying on a regular basis.

 

[Mas]

Re: Is a 7.5hp big enough

Get the 7.5 running and try it out. You can always trade up...which is a lot easier with a running motor. I'm sure, however, you'll eventually want more power--even if the 7.5 will plane the boat with gear.

MAS

 

[Huron Angler]

Re: Is a 7.5hp big enough

I helped a friend get his 1972 Johnson 25 hp outboard running last night for the first time since he bought it with his boat. Man is he happy about that!

He's got a 14' Cadillac aluminum boat and it got up on a plane pretty nicely. It is a pretty heavy duty aluminum hull though.

You should be fine with a 9.9-15hp to get where you need to go and have some fun. It'll save you some gas to have a motor that will plane out when cruising.