Also, consider starting a diesel. Because they use compression, not electricity, for operation, pull starts are not favored, so a battery for a starter is needed.
So happens, someone does--but heavy.
They used to. Italian. However, no market in the USA and heavy. and, then there is that pesky emissions rule. There are some larger ones, Yanmar powered as I recall.
Well each unique situation and set of requirements will have its own solution. I'm sure the solar trolling motor dinghy is right for someone. In your case (a non cruiser on a lake) propane would seem ideal. Especially if you are worried about fuel spills in the marina. But with your desire to plane for supplies, it seams a larger motor would be needed. Lehr makes a 9.9 now I think. Is that too heavy for you?
Thanks Johann, finally somebody get's our situation. The Lehr 9.9 is on the list, not too heavy for me, but a little pricey, and there's not many used propane motors out there of that size. I'm pretty sold on the 5 HP model...at least for this year. Appreciate your commentary and compromise is the answer.
I'll second the larger motor suggestion. As I said above we have a similar dink with a 5 hp 2 stroke and it is a real struggle to get on plane.
Just curious, have u tried a hydrofoil or high thrust prop? I have the doelfin on my 9.8 and it does well getting on plane heavily loaded where it struggled before.
I have not as getting on plane is not that important to me, we travel fairly short distances and are in no hurry. The OP stated he is interested in getting on plane. Myself, as I said above, when we replace this motor we're going with the smallest, lightest OB we can find.
