max horsepower rating

[bowrider98]

I inherited a 1960 14-foot alumacraft row boat and a 1969 Evinrude 9.5 hp OB. The hull lacks any hull identifacation number, max capacity or max horsepower rating plate. Pennsylvania will produce a capacity sticker based on hull dimensions. I'm not sure if the hull had a HIN in 1960 although the old NY state reg. has a lengthy ID #. There are some good end of year sales on OB motors and was wondering if a 15 HP OB is too much for the 51 year old boat. The hull is in great shape although the wood transom does have some dry rot and should be replaced.

 

[Woodonglass]

Re: max horsepower rating

I think you'll be fine with a 15hp on a 14ft boat. You might want to move the battery and gas tank to the middle or front of the boat but other than that you should be fine... BUT DO GET THAT TRANSOM REPLACED!!!!!!

 

[andgott]

Re: max horsepower rating

CHeck out the brochure here-

http://www.fiberglassics.com/library/Aluma_craft

There isn't one for '60, but there is a '59.

It has photos of all the models- Find the closest match (Might even be same model), and then look at the HP rating on the chart... Should give you a good guide.

The DNR is likely to slap a lower HP rating on it- the formulas that they use tend to be VERY conservative!

 

[bowrider98]

Re: max horsepower rating

thanks for the link. I think I found the exact model in the 1960-62 microfiche. the boat dimensions matched my measurement and the table had a 10 hp limit. great resource. thanks

 

[Cadwelder]

Re: max horsepower rating

Glad you found the right information...

I normally would never recommend over powering a boat, but I'm with Woody on this one. I really can't see that 5HP would hurt anything, but it's up to you. Just be safe.