My new inflatable...JP-380

[Pack Rat]

Some years ago I ran in Lake Superior with a Zodiac Mark II Compact (my avatar). I just picked up a JP-380 and will be using a Mercury 25hp on it.

Based on the archives I've been reading I will NOT be drilling new holes and bolting the motor to the transom. If I understand the outboard manual correctly the transom should be able to take 55 foot pounds when I tighten it down. I plan on using cable or chain thru the pre-drilled eyebolts on the transom to keep from losing the motor in case it does get loose.

The marine plywood transom pre-drilled eyebolts holes were not sealed with anything. Would you bother?

The 4 stroke outboard manual also says to avoid prolonged tipping in certain positions due to oil being able to run into the cylinders. I'm finding the weight a problem and the fact it can only be tipped certain ways doesn't help.

I wasn't planning on getting a trailer for this thing. With the old Zodiac I simply carried everything down to the shoreline and set it up. Some of you must have perfected ways to man handle 150 pound outboards? What's your methods?

 

[mudslinging79]

Re: My new inflatable...JP-380

wagon. seriously, i have used a wagon with pneunamic tires, harbor freight has them

 

[azzurro]

Re: My new inflatable...JP-380

You need an outboard trolley.
And probably some kind of davit on your truck.
And one of these:
http://www.dinodirect.com/waist-support-belt-band-neoprene-wrap-elastic.html
And someone to help you.
And finally a launching trolley.

That's too much weight.

 

[Sea Rider]

Re: My new inflatable...JP-380

Very nice sib/engine combo congrats, you will be bored and with back pain soon if you don't find a proper method to assemble & transport the beast. If room in your house/parking area, whatever, go for a trailer and leave the 380 permanently assembled, you will boat more frecuently than having to assemble it every time you will be outting, sib & engine are much faster to clean & rinse after use.

It's not the same to carry a 15 HP than to carry a 25 HP, the worst if being a 4 stroker!! A trailer will solve your tipping engine oil issues. And seal whatever hole is exposing internal plywood, or rotten issues at transom area will start soon.

Happy Boating

 

[zodiac340m]

Re: My new inflatable...JP-380

Some years ago I ran in Lake Superior with a Zodiac Mark II Compact (my avatar). I just picked up a JP-380 and will be using a Mercury 25hp on it.

Based on the archives I've been reading I will NOT be drilling new holes and bolting the motor to the transom. If I understand the outboard manual correctly the transom should be able to take 55 foot pounds when I tighten it down. I plan on using cable or chain thru the pre-drilled eyebolts on the transom to keep from losing the motor in case it does get loose.

The marine plywood transom pre-drilled eyebolts holes were not sealed with anything. Would you bother?

The 4 stroke outboard manual also says to avoid prolonged tipping in certain positions due to oil being able to run into the cylinders. I'm finding the weight a problem and the fact it can only be tipped certain ways doesn't help.

I wasn't planning on getting a trailer for this thing. With the old Zodiac I simply carried everything down to the shoreline and set it up. Some of you must have perfected ways to man handle 150 pound outboards? What's your methods?

I am jealous, I have only a 5hp on my Zodiac 340 . That will be flying with so much power

 

[riverandocean]

Re: My new inflatable...JP-380

Here is one approach for lifting a 175 pound Honda 30 onto my 14 foot Zodiac.

I lift the motor with the block and tackle.

The hoist block rolls along the upper 2x4 on two rollerblade wheels.

I let the motor hang while I go get the boat and move it into position.

I use transom wheels on the boat to wheel it under the motor then into the water.

It works...... I don't strain my back...... but it is a lot of work to set up and tear down.

I was planning to build a custom davit crane for my truck.... but this was the quick and easy solution so now I may never get to the other project.

Harbour freight has a truck box mounted crane which may work.http://www.harborfreight.com/1-2-half-ton-capacity-pickup-truck-crane-with-cable-winch-37555.html

I agree with everyone else.... get a trailer! I use a trailer most of the time.

I only do this when I travel with a camping trailer and want to take my boat too.

 

[Pack Rat]

Re: My new inflatable...JP-380

Thanks for the replys guys. I'm narrowing it down to these two items. Total price under $300.00 US dollars from Northern Tool. I'm going to use the mini crane to lift the outboard onto the dolly.

The center (middle) wheels of dolly are slightly lower than the outer wheels to allow it to bounce along and turn. The only thing left to figure out is some kind of cushioned cradle to lower the engine into with the engine tilted upwards so I can back it onto the transom while it's in the water.

All of this is on paper so how it turns out is unknown. I'll keep you posted. Unfortunately a record flood is being predicted for the Mississippi River this spring and the Coast Guard prohibits boaters out during this time up here in Minnesota. But good old Lake Superior will be open for business.