auxiliary power

[mschoap]

We sail our 1995 Hunter 26 on the Columbia, and being somewhat cautious folk, we've decided
that it might be wise to have a spare motor (electric?) with us in case the 16 year old Honda 8 fails. I'd be grateful for any advice on this subject.

Thanks!

 

[Seattle Scott]

I'd just go with a good anchor system and a handheld VHF radio.

 

[BrianW]

I'm with Seattle Scott.... but I'd also have boat towing insurance. But chances are, you'll never feel really comfortable until you have confidence in your outboard. BrianW

 

[soling42]

First and foremost as mentioned you should have your radio and anchor readily available. I've had towing insc for years and would feel terrible if I needed a tow without it.

A 16y/o engine is going to be a constant brat as it chokes on the ethanol that we are forced to run through our OBs. I'd sell it and upgrade to a newer more reliable engine so you can sail/motor in peace. If I were upgrading for my 26/260 I'd at least get an 8hp OB with elec start/alternator/remote throttle and shift and maybe even power tilt(I know I love mine).

By the way I had fabricated a simple bracket that fits down low on the rudder post to hold my 2hp dinghy motor. I figured if i really had to that I could slide the bracket down and I could use the 2hp to push my 260, although it might be questionable if at all.

Have a safe season, Mike

 

[teacher63]

ethanol

I had an interesting conversation about the ethanol problem. THe simple answer is burn only 93 high test gas with a little stabil. The difference is amazing. I found this out when I bought a new chain saw and the dealer
said only burn high test. The other solution is av gas aviation gas that has no ethanol in it. The outboard starts better and runs better. I have a four year old Honda 5 four stroke.

First and foremost as mentioned you should have your radio and anchor readily available. I've had towing insc for years and would feel terrible if I needed a tow without it.

A 16y/o engine is going to be a constant brat as it chokes on the ethanol that we are forced to run through our OBs. I'd sell it and upgrade to a newer more reliable engine so you can sail/motor in peace. If I were upgrading for my 26/260 I'd at least get an 8hp OB with elec start/alternator/remote throttle and shift and maybe even power tilt(I know I love mine).

By the way I had fabricated a simple bracket that fits down low on the rudder post to hold my 2hp dinghy motor. I figured if i really had to that I could slide the bracket down and I could use the 2hp to push my 260, although it might be questionable if at all.

Have a safe season, Mike

 

[Fly_H23]

Some smaller airports will sometimes sell 100 octane Low lead Avgas by the gallon, usually only about $1.00-2.00 per gallon more than auto gas with ethanol.

 

[jbmayer]

Gas

Most marina's in Florida are now carrying ethanol free fuel just because of the problems with marine engines. You have to ask the marina, but you can do that by phone.