Proper Size Outboard for my 17' runabout?

[shade788]

Hello all, <br /><br />I purcased a used boat without an outboard last summer and have been rebuilding it slowly. The boat is made by a company that is no longer in business (Rainbow Marine). I have tried looking for information on it. All I got was the boat when I purchased it. <br /><br />It is now time for me to purchase an outboard. I am wondering what the proper size is. Here are some specs:<br /><br />Open Bow/Modified V<br />17' Overall Length<br />75" Beam<br />1200 lbs. Approximate Dry Weight (Without OB)<br />80HP is the Max HP on the Capacity Plate<br /><br />There is a 1991 50HP Force outboard in excellent condition for $1200 that I can purhcase. Would this be enough HP for my boat?<br /><br />Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

[steelespike]

Re: Proper Size Outboard for my 17' runabout?

I dont think you would be happy with a 50.<br />I would stay close to the max rating.<br /> We had a relatively light 15 ft Starcraft<br /> with a 50 Evinrude it was adequate for most things but a little underpowered for major skiing.<br /> It was much lighter than your boat.<br /> I would think twice about a Force.<br /> Even if it was better than its reputation<br /> it is a comeplete orphan with no factory parts support except that allready in the system.<br /> NAPA auto parts has 12 pages of Chrysler/Force<br /> parts and Something like 87 pages of E/J parts<br /> dating back to the very early 50s.

 

[Jack Shellac]

Re: Proper Size Outboard for my 17' runabout?

I believe you'd be much happier with the boat's performance with at least a 70HP. I agree on the Force-avoid it if you can.

 

[shade788]

Re: Proper Size Outboard for my 17' runabout?

Cool, thanks for the advice. I will look for a Johnson or Evinrude. <br /><br />By the way how are Mercury Outboards? The dealer I buy boat related items from only deals with Mercury Outboards. Also he said he can work on Forces.<br /><br />Thanks agian,

 

[steelespike]

Re: Proper Size Outboard for my 17' runabout?

mercs are ok too.You have Yamaha,Suzuki,Honda<br /> The main concern is a good reputable dealer close by. Try to find someone who has been in business for more than 20 minutes.

 

[blueboat1]

Re: Proper Size Outboard for my 17' runabout?

I have a 17' aluminum loaded with seats and fishing gear (riggers/coolers/extra fuel and i have a 70 hp Johnson. it will pull a skier with 1 of my props and the other 17 pitch i can run 33-35 to the fishing grounds. I am very happy. My buddy is a mobile marine machanic. He thinks the best use for the Force engine is asv an artificial reef system. Good luck

 

[shade788]

Re: Proper Size Outboard for my 17' runabout?

I just found a 60HP Early 70's Evinrude for $800.<br /><br />I called and the guy told me he just installed new trasmission. He also stated that he goes over every engine he gets to ensure that no one returns them.<br /><br />He said he has been doing boat work for many years. I am going to look at it tomorrow. Anythign I should watch out for? Any problems that they have? I know some models around the early 70's were either electric shift or mechanical shift. <br /><br />I am going to ask him to start it up so I can hear it run.<br /><br />Thanks,

 

[shade788]

Re: Proper Size Outboard for my 17' runabout?

I decided against getting the older Evinrude 60HP since it was electric shift. I found a great deal on a Johson 60HP. It fires right up came with a 6 gallon gas tank and controls. <br /><br />The guy had it attached to a boat and took me for a ride with it. It ran great!<br /><br />I can't tell what year it is though. It's a Johnson 60HP Model# J60ELCIA. It looks newer and has a plastic carburetor cover. He said it was from sometime in the early 80's.<br /><br />Anyone know the exact year?<br /><br />Thanks again,

 

[shade788]

Re: Proper Size Outboard for my 17' runabout?

Nevermind I found the same model number in a different post and a reply stated that it was a 1981 engine. <br /><br />When did Johnson stop making the Sea-Horse? Or do they still make it?<br /><br />Thanks,

 

[Spidybot]

Re: Proper Size Outboard for my 17' runabout?

When looking for a motor also keep in mind that the early designs are pretty thirsty. Give the 60 a second consideration - the 20 hp up to 80 makes a lot of difference.<br /><br />With an 80 you'd have the opportunity of a higher pitch prop thus giving you a better top end, more comfortable cruising (less rpm) and better mpg.<br /><br />How do you plan on using the boat?

 

[shade788]

Re: Proper Size Outboard for my 17' runabout?

I will use it for general recreation, cruising around, and possibly towing a tube. I'm not really into skiing, but might want to try knee boarding or wake boarding.

 

[Spidybot]

Re: Proper Size Outboard for my 17' runabout?

As you're going to use it pretty all-round I'd go for as much power as possible. Would give you a nice confidence in all cases and provide for great cruising. Better to have power and not need it than the other way around!<br /><br />Not knowing your budget I'd suggest 70-80hp, a well known brand with good service nearby and the newest possible model. Make sure you get all the accessories with it (remote box etc.) as those items will add to the price if you have to get separately.