Posted: 02 Jan 2013 at 6:28pm
Hello All,
Enduring the lousy winter pacific northwest weather I am conjuring trips for the summer. I am wanting to extend my range to the San Juan Islands and into Canadian waters which are 70-80 miles north. However, assuming fluky winds I don't think my 6 hp 2 stroke outboard adequate. I am considering a 9.9 hp 4 stroke if I can find one that will fit into the well. Any advice from anyone would be appreciated.
Jack VanZandt
Olympia, WA


Posted: 03 Jan 2013 at 6:10pm
Jack,
I don't know the condition of your motor, but I think 6hp is plenty. I have a Tohatsu SailPro 6hp 4 stroke and find it to be sufficient especially when cruising. It pushes our boat at hull speed at 1/2-3/4 throttle in calm seas and 3.5 knots fighting a 4 knot current at full throttle. It sips gas. I talked to a guy who used this very motor on his Lapworth 24 from Humboldt Bay to Crescent City (70 nautical miles). He said he motored the whole way and used 5 gallons of fuel.
Hope this helps.
-Steve


Posted: 04 Jan 2013 at 12:31pm
Thanks Steve,
My 2 stroke while very reliable, is noisy and vibrates too much for a long trip. I will be on the lookout for a 4 stroke version. Thanks for the info.
Jack VanZandt
Olympia, WA


Posted: 06 Jan 2013 at 6:22am
I use a newer 6hp Suzuki on the (sometimes) swift Columbia River and it pushes her along great. Fits fine in the engine well, but too snug to turn much at all.

Joe Yanqui


Posted: 06 Jan 2013 at 2:21pm
Posters
I have added your comments to the outboard motor page in the technical page on the website:
http://www.dolphin24.org/outboard_motor_comments.html
Thanks for this input, webmaster