Short vs. long shaft outboard

[Roy Rasmussen]

Do I need a short or long shaft engine for my 83 Catalina??

 

[tomD]

long shaft is best

Not sure which size Catalina you have but the way they mount the motor transom to just clear the waterline when under way, and then figuring in some pitch and roll in rough weather, the short shaft motors cavitate and depower just when you need them most--get the 20 inch leg and it takes a pretty wild day to get it airborne

 

[ken]

long shaft!

Roy..............I agree with Tom............. you will not be a happy camper with a short shaft in most situations. Unless you sail on an inland lake where there are little or no whitecaps.The long shaft is only a few $$ more........ and well worth it.What brand of outboard are you considering??