Minimum jet pump

Klem · 04-01-2005, 08:32 AM

I have an 18' flatbottom sled. Needs jet power. What is the minimum should I be looking for in power. I will run the Santiam and Deschutes river.

mitch184 · 04-01-2005, 08:52 AM

In my opinion, I wouldn't look at minimum power, but maximum power. More is better. :grin:
but a 115 to 150 should work pretty good on that size. It also depends more so on the overall weight of the boat.

mswncity · 04-01-2005, 09:27 AM

I have a 17'6" NorthRiver flat bottom with a 90/65 Yamaha Jet. Works great with almost any load that the hull can safely carry. Started out with a 60/40 and it was not even close to being enough power for the hull/load. I would guess the 90/65 is plenty but the power head is about the same weight as the 115 suggested earlier. I'd get the 115 if I could afford it but the 90/65 will get the job done.

MW

weekender · 04-01-2005, 09:47 AM

I'd be looking at a 115 2 stroke or a 130-150 4 stroke.

BloodNtheboat · 04-01-2005, 11:10 PM

I have a 18 foot super ve (6 degree bottom)
I have a 115 merc tiller on it, it gets me where i need to go, but would be nice with a 150 for quicker hole shots in between shallows.
Not sure if this helps since it isnt quite a flattie.
Im sure you know this, but its worth saying, most jet pumps have a hp rating for a prop, A merc 115 might put 90 to the water on a good day.

justcastn · 04-02-2005, 07:53 PM

Put my 200 on it and you'll be done!! :grin: You'll never have to worry about power again.. :grin:

fishjet · 04-04-2005, 02:56 PM

My brother has an 18' flat bottom (center console). Does great with a 115HP 2 stroke Mariner pump. Plenty of power. Good hole shot capability. Boat performs well with a good load (within safe operating specs, proper stowage, weight distribution, etc.). As usual, matching the right motor with the appropriate hull configuration (and how you intend to use the boat) are key onsiderations.

FastAction · 04-04-2005, 03:19 PM

Quote:

Put my 200 on it and you'll be done!! :grin: You'll never have to worry about power again.. :grin:

I know a guy with an 18' flat alumaweld with 200... Its Fast but he only sturgeon fishes the Willy with the boat!

justcastn · 04-04-2005, 05:52 PM

Dang that would be fun!!!!

Jetsledder · 04-04-2005, 06:28 PM

I owned a 18 foot north river flat bottom with a 115 with three people in the boat it still had plenty of power. But I dont weigh much. I would deffinatly recommend the 150 for extra umph when needed.

k9jeff · 04-04-2005, 11:36 PM

I have an 18' alumweld flatbottom and have a 115 merc jet on it. It has plenty of power and get up and go. I have pulled a skier behind it too. Works great.

sacfisher · 04-05-2005, 07:29 PM

What you need to do first is determine what the max power the boat is designed for. Then get what you can afford. Remember the old saying you can never have enough power. This is true, but also if you over power the boat it can become dangerous. But if you under power the boat it also can be dangerous.
Good Luck, Matt

backlash · 04-07-2006, 09:08 PM

I have finally finished my "project". I bought a 18' flattie that in it's former life was a prop boat. Had the transom raised and after scouring the earth for the right motor, landed on a 115 inline 6. I also had Tom's Outboards trick shoe and blueprint the pump. (reduce cavitation and improve hole shots) Maiden voyage is Sunday, should be all I need w/ a flat bottom tiller set up.

k9jeff · 04-07-2006, 09:41 PM

You will be happy with that. I have the inline 6 115 and it is all I have ever needed.