Outboard Power Enough for Displacement?

[eugenesdream24]

I'm looking at the Tohatsu 6HP High Thrust extra long shaft outboard for my 28' sailboat which is 7800 pounds.

Ideally I want a 9.9HP but I'm having trouble finding a good used one locally around me. The 6HP Tohatsu brand new is very reasonably priced and is very light in weight which I like too. So I may go for it.

I don't expect the motor to get me through the gulf stream current or anything. But just for getting me down my canal and out into open water to start sailing I expect it will work just fine.

Any thoughts or considerations I should take into account?

 

[Chief RA]

Thats a lot of money to pay for a new motor that has no charging capability and seriously underpowered for such a large boat. I would shop some more for a 10hp. Chief

 

[Bill Roosa]

IF that is all you need it for then you should be fine
however, if you ever need a motor to get you off that lee shore......
how good are your sailing skills? If you only need the motor when becalmed or in sheltered marina waters that is one thing but if you get stuck in a tight channel with no room to tack (or have to tack a lot) against a strong current taking you into that too low bridge.........
Only you can tell

 

[Crazy Dave Condon]

Second that with Chief as you would be grossly underpowered for that boat. I use to be one of the largest small sailboat dealers in the country and in an emergency or strong current, you would be a dead duck.

 

[Rick Webb]

Take Harry Callahan's Advise

A mans got to know his limitations.





I'd say go for it. Just remember and make allowances for your limitations.

I sailed in Hawaii for many years with no motor at all. Granted the boat was slightly smaller and the wind was most always significant and from a constant direction except in the evening but it would come back after sunset. There are a few at our club who sail similar sized boats with a 3HP motor just to get in and out of the slip.

An 8HP motor would be better but if it is a choice between a 6 horse and staying at the dock get the 6. There are some dealers online have you checked there?