Motor Swap??

[BubbaRob]

Hi all,

I have a 16ft Chrysler tri-hull boat and matching 35HP ERP that is on its lasts legs. Can I just pull it off and put on a EHM motor in its place without much trouble seeing that I won't have to run cables and such? I thought as long as the shaft was the same length it should work without a problem.

I a no boat expert but my goal is to put a smaller 9 or 15HP on it just to have a reliable motor to get me around the lake. The boat is in such great shape I don't really want to buy a new used boat at this point. I'd rather invest $$ into a newer motor to hold me over for a while, plus I really like the boat and its nostalgic feel...

What do you think?

Rob

 

[studlymandingo]

Re: Motor Swap??

It should work. I wouldn't expect a 15HP to ever plane that boat out.​

 

[BubbaRob]

Re: Motor Swap??

Thanks for the reply. Essentially not reaching plane would use more fuel??Boat is rated 600lbs in passenger weight and goes about 17mph now with 3 person load. I'm guessing maybe 5-8mph with the 15hp??

Rob

 

[studlymandingo]

Re: Motor Swap??

Yes, you would be using more fuel pushing the hull as a displacement versus being on plane. When the boat is on plane, there is less hull in the water to offer resistance, greater resistance= lower fuel economy. If you will be doing nothing but trolling, it won't make a difference; but if you want to make your way across the lake to another fishin' hole, then you will probably want to get on top of the water. If you are just going to be idling around, then you might want to look for an aluminum jon or some kind of lightweight tinny.

I would be looking for a 25HP at least for that boat.​

 

[kenmyfam]

Re: Motor Swap??

Yes, you would be using more fuel pushing the hull as a displacement versus being on plane. When the boat is on plane, there is less hull in the water to offer resistance, greater resistance= lower fuel economy. If you will be doing nothing but trolling, it won't make a difference; but if you want to make your way across the lake to another fishin' hole, then you will probably want to get on top of the water. If you are just going to be idling around, then you might want to look for an aluminum jon or some kind of lightweight tinny.

I would be looking for a 25HP at least for that boat.​

Agree. Need something with enough "woomph" to plane you unless you want to just putt putt and troll. I think you would miss what you had previously if you went with a smaller motor.

 

[usda]

Re: Motor Swap??

Around here in So Oregon...the papers carry loads of older boats with 25 to 40 hp motors or bigger. Generally these older motors are in quiet good condition...for 6 to $800 you could buy and ditch the older fiberglass or sell it for something and still have a good motor for your boat without having to go to lower hp.

Something about older outboards that have been taken care of...they can last and last.