dinghy outboard -> Short or Long ft., reliability?

[Bob Pullen HC-33 1981]

Just got a sandpiper 8' dinghy (ex: http://www.directboats.com/sandpiper8.html) on craigs list, new, for $150! Owner used it for rowing, added a teak plate to the transom. Now transom has the reinforced s/s plate that folds over both outside and in, and teak.I'm looking at a couple Mercury 4.5, 2 strokes in great condition. Wondering whether to go regular or long foot, and if anyone would comment on comparative reliability between mfg's (from experience). Boat will be sailing around the Yucatan for the next couple years, and dinghy will be used extensively for spearfishing (inflatable not an option) & getting to & fro (beaches, marinas, etc).many thanks in advanceBob Pullen

 

[Rick D]

Standard Shaft

I have a 3.5 Mercury standard shaft (ne: Tohatsu) on my Leisurelife hard dink. I'm guessing it's similar transom height. No need for a long shaft. I did have another one and used a long shaft on it (2.5 Nissan: same basic engine). No problems with either altho you do have to be a bit more careful in shallows or when beaching with the long shaft. Hope this is responsive to the question you asked. Rick D.

 

[abe]

As a rule of thumb, for dinghy you go short shaft.

because the long shaft may make your bow go up... although in a 4.5hp it may not make to much of a difference. I have a mercury 4hp and never (except for water pump impeller) have had any problems.abe