Motor selection for 20' Alaskan Tiller

[imported_esoxhunter]

Hi again everyone...

I am the new owner of a 2004 20' Alaskan (tiller) and I need to get a motor for it. I have done a lot of homework and have narrowed my choice to either an Evinrude E-TEC or a Yamaha 4-stroke.

My questions to the more experienced of you are:

The boat is rated for 80 HP (max?) but does that mean that's the largest I can go? I am thinking a 90HP would be good.

Are there any insurance issues (I am in Ontario, Canada) that would prevent me from going with the 90 vs. the max. rating of 80?

The 2005 and 2006 versions of the same boat are rated for a max. tiller of 90 and the 2007 is now rated for a max. tiller of 115hp.

The boat's dry weight is about 1050 lbs. and it's about 20' 5" long with a beam of 89".

I am buying a brand new motor and don't want to be dissappointed but I don't plan on doing any racing either...LOL.

The boat will be used primarily for fishing with 2 - 4 people (usually 2) but also transporting gear and family to and from cottage/marina.

I have a kicker for trolling so I am not worried about being able to troll effectively with main engine.

Thanks in advance for your insight.

EH

 

[SpinnerBait_Nut]

Re: Motor selection for 20' Alaskan Tiller

Let me say this. In the states, you have to go by what the sticker says as far as max engine size.
The insurance is not worth much if you are involved in an accident and you are over powered.
Now in Canada, I don't know what the laws are.

My experience with 4 strokes are that I like them. Quite and pretty fuel efficient as to the one's I know of.

 

[bassboy1]

Re: Motor selection for 20' Alaskan Tiller

I would say go with the ETEC.
As for the HP, the boat will hold it fine. But insurance might not. But there are ways to get around that. I am not saying you should, but you could.

 

[imported_esoxhunter]

Re: Motor selection for 20' Alaskan Tiller

When you say the boat will handle the motor... Are you referring to the 90? What about the 115hp?

In general, what is the advide regarding how much motor should one buy (within safe limits of course)?

EH

 

[imported_esoxhunter]

Re: Motor selection for 20' Alaskan Tiller

Thanks to those of you that responded to my question.

I have chosen the 90 E-TEC.

Tight lines!

EH