Outboard Shaft Length

[David Hoch]

I'm buying a new Honda 9.9 for my 260 and wonder if a 20" or 25" is better for the 260.The EZ Steer system sounds interesting since I'll be using remote controls and no tiller on the Honda. Do you have to disconnect the EZ Steer linkage when sailing or does it allow enough rudder travel?

 

[LKYusnret]

In this case

Deeper IS better, in shaft length, LOL. I would disconnect because you want to get the outboard out of the water to cut down on drag.

 

[George H260]

Longer is better. Nothing worse than hearing the scream of a prop biting air in rough water.Properly installed, the rudder-engine connector requires no adjustments and does not interfere with range of motion of rudder or operation of the engine in any way. You raise and lower the engine without making any adjustments to the connector. I will try to make some pics of my installation if it is helpful.My connector has worked flawlessly in all types of conditions. Although the best known product of this type is from E-Z steer, mine came from Goldeneye Products. Cost about $30. Found it on Amazon.com. Go to this link:http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B0000BVEOM/102-5957179-5152137?v=glanceThis modification is even more critical for you because you don't have a tiller on your engine. How would you steer the boat without a rudder?. Last summer my rudder snapped in half at the pivot point while jibing in high winds. Was able to motor home with no problem because the rudder post was connected to the engine.

 

[David Hoch]

Thanks

Thanks, George. So you would recommend a 25" shaft? Someone told me that the 25" shaft might drag in the water when it's in the full-up position while heeling on a port tack... any truth to this?George, your photo link didn't work for me.There's a new H260 available at a dealer in NC if anyone is interested.

 

[George H260]

My Evinrude 25" shaft 9.9 has two indents. I always lift it completly out of the water. Never noticed it dragging on a port tac, but I honestly never looked for that. If it dips into the water from time to time I can't imagine it would be a problem.The real problem is trying to get home in three foot waves with your prop spinning in the air. Even with the long shaft, I've gotten cavitation from time to time in rough weather.Search Google for "E-Z steer" or go to Amazon.com and search on "Goldeneye Auxiliary Motor Link Steering Connector Kit" or just "Goldeneye".Try these links -- they work for me:http://webpages.charter.net/gkobernus/H260_web/misc_upgrades3.htmor http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B0000BVEOM/102-5957179-5152137?v=glanceSince you are buying a new engine, Try to imagine what it's worth to just press a button to raise it out of the water. I have a friend that has electric tilt and he likes to raise and lower it just to p... me off.

 

[Michael7968]

Questions for George

Can you easily release the Goldeneye attachment while you are sailing? I mean, otherwise doesn't the weight of the motor going back and forth add weight to the helm?Do you or anyone know about how much cheaper this is than EZ-Steer? Lots?

 

[David Hoch]

Long Shaft Motor

Thanks again, George - I'm going for the 25" shaft. It's settled. I agree that some dragging in the water is nothing compared to cavitation in swells.I already am planning on the electric tilt and this Honda has a 12 amp alternator which is pretty good for a little motor. I'm getting remote controls too.We pick her up in 15 days! I can't wait.

 

[George H260]

Outboard shaft

We are talking about a motor that weighs about 100 lbs on a boat that weighs 5000 in the water. You won't know the engine is there. I don't think you'll find much difference between the two products. Have the dealer install the connector when he does the remote control. As you can see in my installation, the rod has to be adapted slightly to fit your make of engine. Any other questions e-mail me direct, see the owner directory.