twin outboard benefits

[galvic]

I am planning on fitting a 16 footer with two mercs 500 on a stern bracket (appr. 20 in setback). With only one of these outboards i can get some 23 mph (12x11 in. propeller), and I am going to fit the two with 11 3/4 x 13 in. propeelers. Am i going to get some power, thrust, or speed, and if so, how much compared to the 100 HP engine (of course, approximations). e fuel consumption is also in question, of course. Thank You in advance, Niksa.

 

[Laddies]

Re: twin outboard benefits

You will gain thrust butn not much speed becausr of extra drag

 

[phatmanmike]

Re: twin outboard benefits

you will have better"out of the hole" shot, but your top end speed wont be DOUBLE because you have two lower units draggin in the water.<br /><br />if you had a hydraulic lifting jack plate, things would be different, but i say go for it and shoot us some pics when done<br /><br />mike

 

[JasonJ]

Re: twin outboard benefits

You will probably get worse to about the same fuel economy, you will have more complexity of setup, you will have more weight, and you will have more drag. The upside is you will have get-home ability if one fails, coolness factor, and a better holeshot. In my opinion, on a boat that small, the 100+ horse single engine with a kicker is a better alternative, unless you already have the merc 500s. If so, hook em up and show us the pics!<br /><br />I know a guy who has a 19 foot Starcraft aluminum with twin Johnson 35 horse motors. It is not fast, but that is how he got it, and he does not feel like spending the loot for a larger single. Good luck with it....

 

[Clams Canino]

Re: twin outboard benefits

I feel everything but top speed would be "about" the same as fitting it with a single Merc 1000.<br /><br />Ya, post pics....<br /><br />-W

 

[WillyBWright]

Re: twin outboard benefits

Lets see, twin 500s on a little 16' boat and mounted 20" behind it. Can you say Glub Glub? You're going to need a lot of bow ballast to level that thing. That'll kill your top end.