I just purchased a 12 ft. wards aluminum boat. Im wondering how big of a motor i can safely put on the back?

Question

I plan to use the boat out in the ocean of northern california for crabbing, and also for duck hunting. I'd prefer a 4 stroke just because alot of lakes are outlawing 2 strokes, but i also know that will add considerable weight to the power ratio

Answer 1

check with the Dealer.............the one who sold you the boat....he should have all the Spec's and I strongly recommend that you do not use a boat that small in the ocean specially the Pacific

Answer 2

I had an evinrude 25 on my 10 foot tinnie but that was a 2stroke. A 15hp 4stroke would probably weigh about the same.

Answer 3

Check the I.D Tag on the boat it will tell you the recommended HP for the boat.

Answer 4

depend on the amount of free board you got and the beam of the boat,modern 20 hp, old outboards are heavy and big,why not go electric

Answer 5

I would not put more than 20 hp on it.  10 hp would move it real good.

Answer 6

like 15hp maybe

Answer 7

There should be a plate stating the hp rating on the boat.

A 15 hp two stroke or a four stroke 9.9 would be the biggest I would use.

Any more will cause trouble.