outboard motor replacement

[Claudia]

I have an 1980 O'Day 23. The original motor is a Chrysler Sailor 9.9 HP with controls in the cockpit. It appears that I my have to replace this motor. Does anyone have any information or opinions on what type of replacement motor has cockpit controls? Or would I be better off to get a motor without the cockpit controls?

 

[Geof Tillotson]

Also interested

Though I am loath to give up more room in my cockpit, I have an outboard on my 25 that I have to reach through the transom to control. There are times, mostly near slips, where I worry about turning my back on what's in front of me to adjust the throttle or change gears.I'll probably look at replacing in the next 12 months or so, so I am interested in people's experiences and views too.Thanks - Geof Day-O

 

[Justin - O'day Owners' Web]

Engines

Claudia -Most outboards do not come with the cockpit controls; they need to be retro fitted. Dependant on which type of control you have you may be able to change the cables to work with your new outboard, or you may have to replace the control unit as well as the engine.Personally, I don't think the controls are worth it - its not that far to reach the tiller on a 23 goose the engine manually.I would try a somewhat smaller engine next time - an 8 hp should be plenty for my purposes. I use an 8hp Johnson to push my boat which is significantly heavier than yours.Geof -On your boat getting the engine could make those cockpit controls worth having. Figure on about $450 for the controls and cables if you do the labor yourself.Justin - O'day Owners' Web

 

[Josh]

Remote Control Available...

Honda Marine has remote controlled engines, even with alternators, starting at eight horse and up. You wouldn't need much more then that as Justin points out. I have a 7.5 Merc which pushes my boat like a champ. I thought that I'd need more in some heavy weather, but the people of this site suggested otherwise. To test this, I took her out in four to six foot waves. It proved to be plenty of power even in these extreme (for my area) condtions.If Honda is offering engines with remote controls as small as eight horse, I would think that most of the other major manufacturers would have them as well. These are new engines though, and if you are installing an used engine then you'd have to retrofit controls.As far as IF you or Geof actually need them, I'll leave that for others and yourselves to decide...Josh

 

[Gary]

Outboard Opinions

Opinions are, well, you know...I, too, had a fixed, remote control Chrysler 9.9 (Now for sale-with controls, cables, etc.). Pros: remote controls are handy and convenient, plus mine had electrical system. Cons: extreme lack of directional control, especially in reverse. The year in the marina was most challenging getting in and out with vitually no reverse steering. I replaced mine with 6 horse Johnson with tiller contol, and LOVE it. Much more directional control, especially at slow speed and in reverse and easy to remove for trailering, which I do. Plus, my master showed me how to do some really cool maneuvering with steerable outboard. Good Luck, keep the slimy side down.

 

[Peter Bowers]

Outboard Replacement

Just replaced an old 2 cycle with 5hp Honda 4 cycle. Plenty of power to move my 222 and it has much better control at low RPM's. Well worth the investment.