Outboard help - Daysailer II

[Doug]

I just acquired a 1978 (I think) DSII, great condition. Looking to put a 4 to 6 HP outboard on it, but not sure what to do. Seems like I have two options:1) An outboard bracket (with tilt). Not sure how this would attach to transom as the fiberglass seats are molded to the transom as well.2) Attach outboard directly to transom. Would this create damage to the fiberglass? Is there a way to reinforce the area I am attaching the outboard to?Also, generally, is a 4 to 6 HP engine appropriate for a DSII? At about 55 to 60 lbs (the mercury 4 strokes I looked at), is the transom strong enough? Any 4 to 6 HP outboards that are smaller/lighter than others?Any input would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Ken Cobb]

Smaller engine

I used to have a DS I which had a wooden motor mount bolted to the transom. The mount stood about six inches astern of the transom and off to the starboard side. When using the motor I could use the rudder and motor together to steer the boat. I liked the idea of the motor mount, because I too feared that the motor would damage the fiberglass over time if mounted directly to the transom.I used only a 2.2 two-stroke engine, and found it to be more than adequate for everything I wanted to do with this light boat. It only weighed 20 or 30 pounds. I don't think these boats were really designed to have any motor at all, so I would try to keep the weight way down. Some DS owners even use electric motors.

 

[Geof Tillotson]

3 HP was plenty

Our DS1 had a 3 hp and it was more than adequate - it was an older model that you spun around for reverse.It was mounted on a wooden bracket. It also had a built in gas tank which was great because space in the boat was always at a premium.Geof

 

[Justin - O'day Owners' Web]

Outboards

Doug -I would cut an inspection port in the portside seat to allow you to get to the back of the mount. I wouldn't bother with a lifting type. If you place it correctly you can set up a simple U-shaped mount so that the prop is deep enough in the water and the engine still tilts.Does it have to be four stroke? Awfully heavy for a light boat. If you have to do it then I'd go for something a bit smaller to keep the weight down. If two stroke will work then I'd go 4hp. My 4hp Johnson on my DSII would push the boat very quickly.Justin- O'day Owners' Web

 

[Doug]

Thanks for the advice

No, it doesn't have to be a four stroke. I'll probably look into a smaller/lighter engine. I thought about cutting an inspection port, and that is probably the way to go - thanks

 

[Jeremy Rapp]

Outboard issues.

Look at this site attached. It specs the boat with a 8 hp max. aux. It sound like the size is good. As far as the mounting I would go to a marina. Good Luck

 

[Gary Schroeder]

outboards

I have DS II w/ "U" shaped wooden O/B bracket. Mounted with 4 rudder pintles and gudgeons thru-bolted on transom on SB side of rudder. Bracket stands approx. 4-6 inches aft of transom - allows clearance so motor tilts. 4hp Evinrude powers boat very quickly. Used a small turnbuckle & pin between lower gudgeon and lock lug on motor to hold bracket & motor down - survived a capsize in a microburst without losing motor!