SMALL HORSE POWER OUTBOARD MOTORS

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captainmac

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Feb 1, 2002
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I need some guidance. I have been simply using a trolling motor when fishing. I do want to buy a small horsepower 4 stroke outboard. I have 2 obstacles:<br /><br />1. The 4 stroke motors seem to be so heavy. The boat I will be using it on is a 14 foot owlcraft fiberglass boat. How much is too much for that craft?<br /><br />2. I have no idea which brand of motor is best in terms of reliability, ease of starting and longevity. Thanks Sportfisher
 
JB

JB

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Mar 25, 2001
Messages
45,907
Re: SMALL HORSE POWER OUTBOARD MOTORS

Ahoy, Sportfisher. Most 14' fiberglass boats can handle 15-20hp. There should be a USCG rating plate on the boat somewhere. I think it can probably handle 100 - 125lbs of engine without a problem.<br /><br />As to the reliability, etc. of the small 4 stroke outboards, I think they are all very reliable, easy to start and economical on fuel. None of them are featherweights.<br /><br />For a portable, smooth 4 stroke with plenty of punch, I like the Yamaha or Honda 9.9s. They weigh in at about 90lb. The Johnson/Suzuki 8hp is a little lighter.<br /><br />Red sky at night. . .<br />JB :)
 
R

rlouns

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Aug 24, 2001
Messages
149
Re: SMALL HORSE POWER OUTBOARD MOTORS

Hello Sportfisher and JB,<br /> If you are looking to save a couple of bucks you might want to go to ebay and type outboard motor in their search engine. I was just there and they have at least 5 pages of info.
 
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Crappie_Fan

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Jan 9, 2002
Messages
105
Re: SMALL HORSE POWER OUTBOARD MOTORS

I agree with J.B. I have a 14' 1965 Bass hustler It has a 74 model 25 HP Evinrude witch i have to say has been a very reliable motor. And seems to have no problem with suporting it.
 
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captainmac

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Feb 1, 2002
Messages
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Re: SMALL HORSE POWER OUTBOARD MOTORS

Thanks for the sound advice gentlemen. I looked for the plate Red Sky at Night reminded me of, but it was torn in half. A few other details about the boat; the transom measures 15 incheds ( short shaft, correct?); the inside bottom measures 42 inches; the top of the gunwales measures 51 inches and the sides measure 20 inches on the inside. I'll check e-bay for deals. I hope to find a new motor for about $1600. Thanks again, Sportfisher
 
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DJ

Guest
Re: SMALL HORSE POWER OUTBOARD MOTORS

Short shaft is correct. You should be able to find a dandy for that much.
 
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