Looking for kicker advice on a driftboat

Ol' KL · 09-09-2008, 04:35 PM

I have a 2-stroke Merc 9.9 that I have used on my Alumaweld 17ft DB from time to time. It's getting a little weary, and I'm thinking about replacing it with a new Honda, or maybe Yamaha, 8hp. I plan on buying a 18-20 ft. sled in the next year or so, and would probably use the new motor on both boats.

I've noticed that these new motors weigh 100-120#. Anyone have any experience with that much weight in the back of a DB? I think my Merc is only about 60# or so.

Bobberman · 09-09-2008, 04:59 PM

It's alot of weight on most drifters. I prefer the electric when a motor is required

.

Premo · 09-09-2008, 05:24 PM

The mercury four strokes are 80+#'s and work well on a drifter.

A-Boss · 09-09-2008, 06:02 PM

I have a Yamaha F-8 that I used to use on my db, that now sits on my sled. Its 83lbs and I've been very happy with it in both applications. Never felt like it was too heavy for my db.

Willie Ketchum · 09-14-2008, 09:11 AM

I'm now using a Merc 6hp four stroke, 52 lbs, easy to lift on and off, lighter than the battery alone for my Minn-Kota, works well, uses negligible gas. I have a Yam 9.9 on my sled, but that rascal is heavy, and the Mercs are heavier. I've used as small as a 4hp on DBs over the years with success. Light is good.

rockaway · 09-17-2008, 07:05 PM

I'd go with the yamaha T8. Wonderful outboard. Trolls right down and gives a great top end. Throw a set of wings on it or maybe a prop guard and that will work well. I run both a gas honda 8 and an electric 80lb thrust minn kota tide water. The T8 is a better engine. I believe the best out there. The wings on the motor will allow you to reach top speed with your drifter. Help keep the nose down. Well worth the money. Prop guard is also a terrific idea. Nothing worse than ruining a prop on a river bottom. Good luck on your search. Another idea is one I got from Scott Ammerman. He has a side mount seat that mounts to the rear gunnel of your drift boat. I bought one and love it. Had to be custom made. Best addition I have made to my boat. Makes trolling easy and enjoyable. Check it out on his stealhead video on his web site. He has one on a clackacraft. Good luck!!