WTB-Motor for Aluminum DB-Your Recommendation?

DuckFan · 09-05-2005, 07:54 AM

Hi there,

I have a 16' Alumaweld drift boat and would like to add a gas motor. What size motor and shaft would work best? Primarily for lake fishing, but also to run some rivers.

Thanks for any suggestions!

stevo · 09-06-2005, 09:47 AM

LS 8hp or less.
Ideally I'd recommend one like I used to have. A little 4hp Merc with the built in tank, no hoses or tank to deal with.
Whatever you get, get a LS.
Good luck

jimh · 09-06-2005, 10:25 AM

Would an Extra Long Shaft be helpful or more trouble than it is worth?

SeanD · 09-06-2005, 11:46 AM

I think you would hit more rocks with it. I know I would with an XL.

DuckFan · 09-06-2005, 06:40 PM

That sounds like the perfect motor for me! Do they still make this motor (or any other brand and size) with the built-in fuel tank? I was thinking I might need something in the 7-8HP, but this 4HP sounds great. I really like the lighter weight-for easy storeage.

Where can I find one???

Thanks again!

jimh · 09-06-2005, 07:32 PM

Tohatsu makes both 2 stroke and 4 strokes and appear to have good warranties at 3 years. 2.5 and 3.5 hp 2-strokes can be had at about 30 lbs. In the 4 strokes, the 6hp is the same weight (55 lbs) as the 4 hp but these have remote 3 gallon tanks. Doing a few searches can find you one online, or I'm sure there are local shops that have them. One thing to look at is not all small outboards have Neutral and Reverse. My guess is the 6 hp 4 stroke is about optimum weight.

In any case, either of these are less weight than a large deep cycle battery.

Amahnee · 09-09-2005, 10:07 AM

Quote:

My guess is the 6 hp 4 stroke is about optimum weight.

I would buy a Yamaha 4-Stroke Manual start, long shaft in 8HP. They are the same motor as the 6HP at 83lbs., only the 6 has a throttle limiter. You will get better re-sale down the road with an 8 over a 6 too.

FastActionRodTip · 09-09-2005, 10:42 AM

oh man, jump on it dude...wished I'd have known...too late now