Posted: 27 Dec 2009 at 12:49am
I'm going to be buying a new outboard for Robin Lee. Looking at the Tohatsu 6hp, but I can't decide whether I should get the 20" long shaft, or the 25" extra long shaft.

I'm inclined to go with the longer one, since it must be more efficient to get the prop down into deeper, undisturbed water, and I generally take the motor out of the well if we are sailing a long passage.

I saw in the tech section that some folks have long shafts, and some extra long. Anyone have any opinions? Thanks!!

Erik Evens
Los Angeles, CA
"Robin Lee", Yankee Dolphin #118


Posted: 02 Jan 2010 at 5:11pm
Hi Erik
I know you already have a response on this from Todd Phillips (Cove Dweller, Yankee #111)via the webmaster info channel, but for those Forum readers who maybe waiting anxiously here is the pertinent part of Todd's reply - also appearing with other comments on the the Outboard Motor page on the Website's Technical Section

"I sold my boat but would be happy to recommend the Tohatsu 6hp, I was glad that I had the extra long shaft when the boat would get into some heavy chop as I think the shorter shaft might have popped out of the water in the troughs. I also ordered a smaller pitch prop than the standard for more power. I purchased the motor through Defender.com.

The 6 hp extra-long shaft was more difficult to get in and out of the well than I originally envisioned. I had planned on taking it out at the end of every weekend and did that for about two months. I ended up putting antifouling paint on it and leaving it in place. I doubt that the extra long shaft motor would fit in the well but can't remember that I ever tried - perhaps the long shaft would be better."

Ron
Marionette, # 12