looking for the right motor

[KJ]

3.5 is all you need

I motor sailed from Marina Del Rey to Dana Point (about 70 miles) using a 3.5 merc.I then traded my 3.5 for a Honda 7.5-4 stroke, which fits my c-26, but is heavier and as more power than I need.I'll probably buy another 3.5 2 stroke next time I vist the inlaws (can't buy new 2 strokes in CA anymore)

 

[Capt-Dave]

Contender engine choices

I have owned my Contender for 28 years, the last 10 of which were used to teach sailing. My first engine was a new, long shaft, 2 cylinder, 6 hp Johnson. The performance was excellent. I feel all 6 hp was needed to make headway against a stiff head wind. On the minus side I had to raise the hatch 4 inches. The engine exhause comes out the back of the engine shaft. The exhaust would build up in side the motor well choking the engine. There are several ways to solve this problem.Five years ago I bought a lighter, new 5 hp, 2 cycle, 1 cylinder, regular shaft Nissan. The power was adaquate against a stiff head wind. Exhaust comes out the prop opening. This jet effect does increase the forward power. However, even in nuetral there is forward movement. Reverse is a mess. The short shaft was adaquate. The single cylinder is noisy with way to much viberation. I had to do a little surgery to make it fit.I am retiring on a 34' Grampian ketch.

 

[Matthew Rood]

8.8 yamaha

My Father in law just put a brand new 8.8 Yamaha on with a high torque prop, which is just a prop from a 25. It has automatic start with hand controls and Power tilt/trim. It fits fine under the Lazarette and tilts up! The prop is great for switching from reverse to forward, it's so quick. I might be purchasing this boat and unfortunately,he is taking the motor for his new boat. That's okay though I have an old 9hp with auto start as well, we'll see how it works.