268 Sundancer Auxiliary motor

[tykes]

I have a 268DA here in the Uk that only has one engine and I am looking into the possibility of mounting a bracket on the swim platform to take a small outboard simply as a "get me home" in the event the main engine fails for whatever reason. I hope it never does but I would rather not find myself in the path of a Channel ferry with a dead engine.

Can anyone tell me whether this is feasible and if so what size outboard would be needed to move the boat? I have a 10hp 2 stroke Johnson but fear that would not have enough power.

Would appreciate thoughts from anyone who has considered this.

Thanks

 

[nickdcj7]

I've seen it done, so it is possible. Some guys used to do this for a trolling motor. i dont know what size outboard you would need, but i would think 10 hp would be enough to at least make headway.

 

[Kirat41]

I also own a 268 with a single engine... I also was thinking about doing this same setup... Would love to hear some more answers or if anyone has done this before...

 

[SloBurn]

10 hp would be enough to move you........... how fast do you want to get out of the way of a ferry?

http://www.travelagentcentral.com/united-kingdom/new-high-speed-ferry-cross-english-channel-14647

 

[Jimmy Buoy]

I had a 268 and a dingy with a 5hp Merc. The dingy was held to the swim deck with Weaver davits. It was possible to lower the dingy to the water, make sure the motor was facing forward, lock the steering from moving with the butterfly nut, and run it at 1/2 throttle. It would provide enough force to push the boat forward slowly and rough steering was still available with the outdrive.

 

[stwischu]

I have Sea Tow coverage if I get stuck. The danger with a tiny motor is that it can start your boat moving but you won't have good steering ability. Going under bridges could be tricky if there's any wind or current.

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[Illusion]

I think that you may be able to up the hp to 15hp depending on the year, that should provide enough to get to safer waters, just make sure the bracket is strong enough.

 

[tykes]

Many thanks for the replies - I will give it a try when the boat goes back in the water.

I dont intend going anywhere near the new fast ferry between Dover and Boulogne!

I did read somewhere that the Johnson 10 and 15hp were essentially the same motor. My Johnson is a late 80's model Workhorse which I believe was a commercial engine. It is still new and never been on a boat although I do run it periodically and it runs sweet as a nut. Do you know what mods are required to up the hp to 15?

Many thanks
Richard

 

[Illusion]

If your lucky it will be a restrictor plate between the carb and power head, some did have smaller carbs so may have to change it. A Google search may help you to identify what you have and cross reference part numbers. I have just increased my 10hp mariner to 15hp, the yams are easy too.

 

[Kirat41]

Hey Tykes! Once you get everything mounted up to your 268... I'd love to see some pics ...

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