New outboard for an old boat

[wadebmadden]

Ok she's old, I get it. AS such she isnt as reliable as she could be. If I tried to buy a new sterndrive for her, I run into a few problems. 1, this outdrive isnt made anymore, so any one I get is going to be a refurb, and problem 2, If I try to upgrade to a newer outdrive, it is going to take a lot of major fiberglass work. Neither of these options sound very good to me (At the time). I was thinking about adding a kicker (small lil outboard much like a large trolling motor) to be used an as auxillary motor in the event the main engine/drive setup dies on me.

A Capt. I worked for years ago told me that this is a great idea for ocean going single engine boats any way, even new motors breakdown.

I guess I was just wondering in anyone had any experience with this, what size I might want to think about. etc.

I was looking at the 9hp honda motors. but I dont know.

Thanks in advance.

Wade

 

[Sundancer]

I'd probably go a little bigger, maybe a 15 or 20 HP. Get one with an alternator so you can charge your batteries and/or keep you electronics running. That way you can still use your GPS, Fishfinder, VHF, Stereo etc while cruising home at displacement speed. I don't know if you have any currents to contend with, but a little larger motor will make life easier in those situations or even if the wind picks up and is blowing the wrong direction.

 

[wadebmadden]

Inland lakes and rivers I will very often have a current to contend with, especially in Kansas its not uncommon to have a 40 kt wind. I guess the thing to think about is "do I want this aux motor to get me home in all conditions, or most",,, that could make a diffenerce.

 

[wadebmadden]

Or I could upgrade to a twin screw!!!!! Hell, Im single, why not!!!