Kicker Engine Question??

[RickV1955]

Don't know if this is the correct forum for this??

But, how difficult (and expensive...minus the cost for the outboard) is it to set up a "kicker"?

I have a 2005 Proline CC with a 115 Mecury outboard.....the boat will be used (8 months till retirement - can't wait!!!!!!!!!) mostly for fishing in the Gulf out of Bradenton, Florida.....probably not more than a max of 20-25 miles offshore. *(and I do have insurance which includes towing)

Although mine is a decent sized boat......doesn't seem to be all that much room at the rear for a second motor??

How big an engine would be sufficient for an "emergency" kicker on this sized boat??

I'm still a newbie when it comes to ocean boating (especially Florida Gulf) but I haven't seen too many boats with kickers - do, obviously see those large boats with the "twin" engines......makes me shiver just to think about the fuel costs in those babies.....LOL

 

[ondarvr]

Re: Kicker Engine Question??

You didn't say what size the boat is and it makes a difference.

If there is no room next to you main engine, then you can use one of these brackets.

http://www.iboats.com/Boat_Parts_Ac...*********.746570146--submit.x.31--submit.y.10

As for HP, it can vary, but a 9.9 or 15HP long shaft engine would work well, they're typically the same physical size, so there is no weight penalty for the 15 over the 9.9.

The high thrust kickers of the same size do a much better job of pushing larger hulls, but if you're 25 miles out it won't be a quick trip back in with any small engine.

 

[RickV1955]

Re: Kicker Engine Question??

Oooops, thought I put it in........

It's a 19' Proline CC with a 115 Merc. outboard.

There may be enough room for a kicker??
I just bought this boat in March 2009.....only been out a couple of times in and around Bradenton Beach/Anna Maria Island.

Probably do most of my fishing a lot closer than 25 miles out.....but, might venture out that far when I get a little experience under my belt.

Although I do have "tow insurance".....ship to shore radio (always my trusty cell phone)...GPS unit......
Thought that it might be worth it to get a kicker (9.9 - 15 hp was what I was thinking also....) Just didn't know how much of a hastle it would be getting one put on....??

 

[INJUN]

Re: Kicker Engine Question??

An outboard motor bracket can be mounted on the transum with a few bolts.
The first one in 'ondavrs' reply attachment is the one I have and it works like a charm.

 

[kenmyfam]

Re: Kicker Engine Question??

15hp would be my best guess.