4Hp - Tassie weather, Bass Strait = is 4hp enough?

[cruiserpete]

Hi all,

I've found a previous post re a 4hp but it was very short so I thought I'd ask anew.

My current outboard is the original Volvo Penta 90 (9Hp) with believe it or not a 4amp charger..cool
Unfortunately, although, the outboard works fantastically its age is a factor...thus time for a replacement.

I've come across a good 2nd hand 4hp outboard at my local Marine supplies for $600 with a 3 month warranty. I trust these guys and the mechanic says he's looked over the outboard and it runs fine.

Is 4hp enough given that I live in Tassie so the weather get a bit foul every now and then so I'm thinking is 4hp enough to push an I563 through some chop if I need to 'run' for home. It will certainly do for leaving the ramp but my concern is 'running' in chop if the weather picks up...


Cheers, Pete

[Yara50]

Pete, see discussion in Technical Articles. The key is shaft length and prop selection. I would stay with 5hp.

[Dr. Peter]

I use an 8hp 2stroke Yammie, but I already owned it prior to buying my 563. It has a dual thrust prop and runs 100:1 petrol:oil. Its been as reliable as a wheelbarrow and will push through chop. However, It is heavy and I use blocks to pull it up. I have never run it flat out and only use high revs when maneuvering (reversing). A reliable 5hp should be good enough powerwise and light enough on the engine mount. Just make sure whatever you get is absolutely reliable.

BTW search other posts - outboards have been discussed many times.