outboard for a 27

[Dennis]

My old 13 horse outboard worries me. I would like to update. What has been your experience? Can I get away with one of the newed 10 horse units, or should I go for something bigger? Is the extra weight of the 4-cycle motors a problem?

 

[Justin - O'day Owners' Web]

Outboards

Dennis - Most of the 27' boats (O'day and Catalina) seem to be using 9.9 or 10 horse engines with no problem. Since the 10 and 15 horse engines are often built on the same platform, if you have the budget there may be the occasional considition where you appreciate the additional power, but otherwise the smaller units ought to work well. My only caveat to that would be that if you do long passages under power you will be able to maintain the same speed with less throttle on the bigger units and might want to consider going that route to reduce wear and tear.As for the four stroke debate - many will jump in with other opinions but I just don't think they're worth doing on engines in this size. The added expense and weight on our smaller boats is too much of a liability. Bigger engines - yes. When our Grady White needs to be repowered it will get a 200 fourstroke. Justin - O'day OWners' Web

 

[Leon Scott]

More outboards

A point to consider on replacing the motor is that the original Fulton motor mounts are not rated to accept four-stroke motors because of the combination of weight and torque. My 272 came with a 9.9 four-stroke and I love it as far as the performance goes- starts in a heartbeat and purrs like a quiet cat. The downside is that it's a PITA to raise on the original mounts and I'm told that it is a common problem. I like the motor enough that I will do whatever is necessary to find an appropriate mount, even if it means modifying the wedge. That's my two cents worth.Scotty