We ended up with a next-to-new 9' Zodiac (thanks to Judith's connections) at a great price. Unfortunately we probably won't find an outboard for a comparable deal. Used units seem pretty rare, so I'm pricing out new ones for this weekend. As much as I'd like a 4hp (dingy's rated capacity), the 2.5's that are available locally will be better on the budget, but is 2.5hp enough?
I was hoping to get enough HP on the dingy to be able to assist in ungrounding the yacht (sandy, forgiving shoals here) or for short distance towing if the Diesel ever gave up. I'm guessing that any kind of head wind would prevent headway from such a small amount of power...
Thoughts on this and general dingy guidance is welcome!
Dingy motor recommendations
Moderator: Jim Walsh
2.5hp is plenty for your dinghy with 2 people in it, perhaps even 3, you wont be a speed demon, but it will work. But for towing your CD its not going to help much. Personally I would splurge for the 4hp, not only will you get a little more speed out of your dink, but in a situation where you do have to tow the big boat it will work far better.
I would recommend a 2 stroke, but I do not htink anyone is making 2 strokes that small anymore, plus they are slowly being banned in the US. As for brands, I am a huge fan of yamahas, most full time cruisers swear by them for reliability.
I would recommend a 2 stroke, but I do not htink anyone is making 2 strokes that small anymore, plus they are slowly being banned in the US. As for brands, I am a huge fan of yamahas, most full time cruisers swear by them for reliability.
Russell
s/v (yet to be named) Tayana 42CC
s/v Lady Pauline Cape Dory 36 #117 (for sale)
s/v (yet to be named) Tayana 42CC
s/v Lady Pauline Cape Dory 36 #117 (for sale)
what is the max hp?
2 strokes are lighter. Yes, the E.P.A is going to 4 strokes, for good reasons, but it is not a problem to use one in N.C., or anywhere else I know in SALTWATER. All new will eventually be 4 strokes, but you can buy used 2 strokes until they are gone, I believe.
I have a 5hp nissan that seems to work well with many types of dingys.
I have a 5hp nissan that seems to work well with many types of dingys.
Last edited by marilou on Aug 11th, '06, 11:12, edited 1 time in total.
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cbrenton
- Posts: 64
- Joined: Feb 7th, '05, 09:00
- Location: Carol Anne
Cape Dory 33, Hull #75
Newington, New Hampshire
Hi Warren
I like my 2 horse 4 stroke Honda. It powers my AVON roll-up against the 5K currents in the Piscataqua. It seems to be as effective as my old 4 horse 2 stroke Evinrude and it is lighter. I did tow my boat once for about 2 miles. It was slow going. I doubt it would do anything in a grounding.
Best wishes,
Charlie Brenton
"Carol Anne"
CD 33 #75
I like my 2 horse 4 stroke Honda. It powers my AVON roll-up against the 5K currents in the Piscataqua. It seems to be as effective as my old 4 horse 2 stroke Evinrude and it is lighter. I did tow my boat once for about 2 miles. It was slow going. I doubt it would do anything in a grounding.
Best wishes,
Charlie Brenton
"Carol Anne"
CD 33 #75
2stroke vs 4 stroke
I would recommend a 2 stroke,, plus they are slowly being banned in the US. As for brands, I am a huge fan of yamahas, most full time cruisers swear by them for reliability._________________
Do you think they will outlaw the new ETEC outboard motors ?
Do you think they will outlaw the new ETEC outboard motors ?