Outboard motor size for a Cat 27

[Dennis Murphy]

I recently tried to put a Mariner 15 hp outboard motor on my 1974 Cat 27. However, it would fit in the tramson cut-out. It was fine down, but would not retract and lift up. Does anyone know of a small head 15 hp outboard that would fit in the transom of the Cat 27?

 

[Sloopercat]

Transom Trim

I have the same motor, well it is a Mercury label, on mine. You need to cut about 1.5 inches off the bottom of the transom if you want it to fit. The boat is probably overpowered all by itself, but I now can tow my RIB dinghy at hull speed. The motor was the same size and weight as the 9hp. I got the largest, lowest pitch prop available and have great reverse power. Good luck, I know I looked around a bit before I found all the features I wanted.

 

[LaDonna Bubak - Catalina Owners]

Outboard bracket

Instead of cutting, you *could* install a lifting outboard bracket. But make sure it's secured very well (wouldn't you hate for it to fall off due to a loose nut?!).LaDonna

 

[Art McGirr]

inboard vs.outboard

I am debating replacing my 4 cylinder Atomic inboard on my 27 with 9.9 hp outboard or brand new Yanmar diesel $7500. Pros and cons what are they! Their is a listing on Catalina site for retrofiting transom for 9.9 HP long shaft (check it out). Con's= rough water chops that pull prop out of water when you need to get somewhere vs inboard reliability! I am looking for long pull to replace inboard and include new motor mounts and prop coupling etc.Think about it if you want to sell boat in few years!