motor length for Hunter 25

Mar 23, 2015
8
Hunter Std Chesapeake Bay
Planning on purchase of new motor (either 8 or 9.9 HP electric start) for Hunter 25. Is there an advantage of shaft length 20" or 25".
 
May 25, 2015
176
Macgregor, Hunter Venture 21, H25 Candlewood
Planning on purchase of new motor (either 8 or 9.9 HP electric start) for Hunter 25. Is there an advantage of shaft length 20" or 25".

I have a 25" on mine, prop stays in the water better in rougher water
 
Mar 23, 2015
8
Hunter Std Chesapeake Bay
Good thought...thank you

BTW do you have an 8hp or 9.9hpand whose make?
 
May 25, 2015
176
Macgregor, Hunter Venture 21, H25 Candlewood
Johnson 15, came with the boat, it runs well, boat seems happy, I'm happy
 
Jun 8, 2004
10,531
-na -NA Anywhere USA
Johnson which was a part of OMC bankrupted many years ago. Tohatsu, Nissan and smaller Mercury engines up thru the 9.9 for sure all are made by Tohatsu. I am not sure which 25 you have either the older boat or the newer one but looking at Chesapeake Bay, should you be in choppy and large seas, even the 20 inch shaft can come out and whrrr momentarily and in that case the 25 inch shaft is suggested.

Electric start is great and while running, it will recharge the engine. Generally the 8 hp. block and shaft I thik are the same for the 9.9 but could be wrong here on this one. Generally all engines are good ones but everyone will have their preference. I would suggest buying from a reputable dealer in your area so you will be assured of service. I have never thought of buying over the internet although you have some savings but for assurance from a local dealer for servicing, I prefer paying a little more for that assurance.
 
Mar 23, 2015
8
Hunter Std Chesapeake Bay
Thanks John and Dave. Good advice.
It is a 1976 Hunter 25 and will have a motor with a 25' shaft.
It has a pop-top with screens all around which is a big plus at the dock or at anchor.. Motor is way back which is why I'm thinking electric start and remote shifting.
 
May 25, 2015
176
Macgregor, Hunter Venture 21, H25 Candlewood
Thanks John and Dave. Good advice.
It is a 1976 Hunter 25 and will have a motor with a 25' shaft.
It has a pop-top with screens all around which is a big plus at the dock or at anchor.. Motor is way back which is why I'm thinking electric start and remote shifting.
Same set up I have, '76, cockpit controls, eletric start, no pop top

Do you think the 25 foot shaft will cause issues?
It is a 1976 Hunter 25 and will have a motor with a 25' shaft.
Sorry, had too
 
Mar 27, 2010
84
Hunter 240 Branched Oak Lake, NE
I replaced the outboard on my 240 last year. 20" is the minimum on my boat, but I was asking myself the same questions about 20" or 25". Since I do only inland sailing, I went with Crazy Dave's advice (always good!) and decided on the 20". I don't have any problems with the prop coming out of the water, but again that's only on inland lakes.

I went with the Mercury 8hp with electric start and absolutely love it. The motor sits pretty far back on my boat too, so having throttle and shift on the motor tiller handle makes it so easy to use. The built in alternator is great for keeping the battery charged. The motor runs very quietly and coming into the slip is a breeze with these controls. And, I have plenty of power to move the boat when I need it.

Again on Crazy Dave's advice, I chose Mercury over the less expensive Tohatsu because I have a local, certified Mercury dealer to service it (but not Tohatsu). I went to my local dealer to order the engine, but he wound up telling me that I'd save a lot of money ordering it from Online outboards or Bass Bro. He said he'd be happy to service the motor for me no matter where I bought it from. A very honest, upfront guy. However, I've heard of others who have had trouble getting service when purchased online. So, I'd definitely start by talking with a local guy.