What HP size outboard to use?

[smsscuba]

I have a 12ft Picton speedboat which I purchased recently to use for water skiing.The previous owner told me that he had a 70hp strapped on the back.

I need some advice from all of you avid boaters out there as to what HP is good for to pull a skier or a tube? I am looking at a 1989 Mercury 80HP three cylinder outboard to strap on the back, is this too big?

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: What HP size outboard to use?

The key word is Speedboat! Not really designed for skiing and if the previous owner had a 70 bolted to it.... I imagine it flew!

I am actually more concerned with the control you would have being that short (12 ft). I have skied with a 18 HP on a small aluminum boat and with a boat that size for "pleasure skiing" just about anything 25 hp and above will do it.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: What HP size outboard to use?

I presume there is no HP capacity plate?

That boat has a pretty deep vee for it's size, so it will take some power. Is that ladder big enough for ya?

Try the 80, and take it easy. A salom skiier will pull the transom around, as he cuts, I will bet.

 

[Bifflefan]

Re: What HP size outboard to use?

Per the boat builders handbook, and assuming your transom is 4.5 feet wide. It works out to 20HP Max safe HP.

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: What HP size outboard to use?

Nice boat! BUT---- I think you will quickly find that it is not really suitable for skiing. By the time you get three people, skis and gear in it, there won't be much room. Also, as stated above, a decent skier will pull the stern around on cuts. The tail will wag the dog!

If the transom is wide enough and you go with the Merc 80, expect about 55-60 MPH with one person in it--maybe more, but handling will be a bit of a thrill since it has a riding pad. Also expect that with the weight of the Merc, the splashwell will ship water either just sittin there or if someone tries to climb the ladder, and for sure, when you slow down and come off plane, the following sea will come over the transom.

Here's a photo of a 14 footer with a 125.

 

[smsscuba]

Re: What HP size outboard to use?

Thanks for all the honest replies.I am NOT going for the 80hp, maybe a 40hp will be enough for me.I hope.