Honda 8HP and H240?

[Kent M]

We recently bought a '98 Hunter 240 that came with a Honda 5HP. I was wondering how it handles a Honda 8HP. Are there any problems with the motor bracket holding the heavier 8HP? We trailer our boat and rarely leave it in a slip. Any problems with launching or retrieving the boat on a ramp with the motor attached? Has anyone seen any bending on the brackets when the motor is tilted up for sailing? I plan on removing the motor for trailering down the road. Thanks!

 

[Joe Harper]

Response 8 HP for 240

I have been running a 9.8 HP on my 98 240 for about 3 years now andhave had no problems. I leave the motor tilted up when sailing andwhen at dock. I had to shift internal weight so balance the boat for the added weight.

 

[Mark]

8 hp fine

I should think it will be fine.We have a 8 HP Yamaha 4 stroke on our 260.It provides more than enough power and the weight does not concern me at all!Shouldn't think there would be much difference on the 240.

 

[Mike]

Degree of tilt

I have a Honda 9.9 on a 240 and there are two tilt positions: the lower position still drags and is probably worse than fully lowered because it's not a smooth flow of water.The upper position cannot be achieved unless the motor is rotated right (looking forward) first (because of the motor's tiller). The real trick comes when trying to lower it from the cockpit - it takes a contortionist to reach the release lever.I would be concerned about the physical size of the 8 too, because the 9.9 is too bulky, and is about 2X more thrust than is needed on a 240 anyway. Weight is also a factor, as has been mentioned: you might want to move your battery to the port side, after building a new shelf.This is all a PITA, but Honda has a good rep and mine starts and runs very well.Anything wrong with your 5HP?

 

[Steve]

Works Great

My 240 has a Honda 8 HP - it's a great motor, and we have no problems with it - we keep it tilted up for sailing, but down on the trailer for storage. On our ramp, launching/retrievingworks well with the motor down. Note that Hunter rates the 240 for 10 HP max, so structurally there should be no problem with additional weight. I think the 8 is just right and wouldn't consider anything larger. As Mike said, the motor has to be turned to the right for clearance when tilting it up for sailing, but once we figured out the trick it is easy to raise and lower.

 

[Bob Kalisz]

Honda 8 hp

I have a 1998, 8hp, 4 stroke and it pushes the 240 nicely. To get it completely out of the water requires rotating the engine onto its side. If you straighten it out part way, you can get to the release handle to lower it back down.I noticed a considerable improvement in towing performance, higher speed and no fish tailing, with the motor off the boat.Bob KaliszAlrightie Then

 

[Bob Kalisz]

Briggs and Stratton

Popular Mechanics had a brief article about a Briggs and Stratton air cooled outboard. 56 pounds, four cycle with external tank for around $800. 5 horsepower. Freshwater use only.