Dingy Motors

[Harman]

I am planning on buying a new motor for my RIB inflatable and was wondering about size. I want to know the real difference between the 5hp, 6hp, and 8hp motors.I am looking into Mercury and I want a motor that has some good speed so I can good relatively far relatively quickly. What I know know is this, the 6 and 8 hp weigh around 73lbs, compared to 45lbs for the 5 hp. What I don't know is how much faster each motor is compared to the other.Does anyone have any information on the differences and pros and cons of these motors?Thanks,Hhttp://www.traveloutward.com

 

[Ed]

What' does the transom plaque say?

The dinghy's transom should have a plaque with the maximum weight the transom can hold. That's your limit.Happy sails to you ~ _/) ~

 

[Warren Renninger]

HP vs LBS vs KTS

An 8 ft RIB with less than 8 hp will probably not plane. Friend with a 6 hp 2 stroke just plowed.Most folks I see that want to do more than putt around go for 15 hp. But, don't exceed placard.Look at hp per pound of engine. 4 strokes tend to be heavier but some companies are improving that too.

 

[Michael O']

Can you lift it?

Before worrying about the zoom, I think you should start thinking about your strength. Can you easily handle more than 60 pounds? Can your first mate hand the motor down to you in that bobbing dinghy? Of course, you can invest a couple hundred bucks in a lifting tower, but then that extra horsepower starts to get rather expensive.The new 4-stroke engines are quiet, great on fuel efficiency, and better for the environment. They also weigh more!If you plan to use muscle power to lift the motor on and off the dinghy, I'd recommend the new Suzuki or Tohatsu 6hp (4-stroke) both weigh 55 pounds.It's your back, your money, and your choice!

 

[Ken]

Nissan

Do you know that you can save hundreds by looking at the Nissan/Tohatsu. Tohatsu makes all the small horse power outboards for Mercury and generally run $200 less. If you look at them both the only difference is the engine color and decal. A weight saving factor can be a 2 cycle engine, I have a 4 stroke 8 HP weighing in at 80lbs. I have to one hand that beast all the time, it's easier getting the wife in the car after a hard Saturday night.

 

[Warren]

O/B Motor

Look for a late model Evinrude/Johnson 4 hp...Its 2 cylinder (smooth) and light weight (under 40 lbs.)