Power for 18' Nova

[delms82]

I have 75 Johnson 85hp and 95 Johnson 48hp available for powering my Nova which is almost water ready. I have used cmc power tilt ready for either motor.

Plan on mostly fishing Lake Erie (trolling w 6hp kicker) and some cruising. Majority of time total of 2 onboard. Looking for some feedback. Thanks, Alan

 

[GA_Boater]

If the 85 horse motor is in good shape, it would be my choice. 48 ponies on an 18 footer is kinda puny, there are times when you want some speed. What is the max HP for an 18' Nova?

 

[dozerII]

I agree with GAB, if the 85 Johnny runs good I would use it, it will most likely be a bit of a slouch with the 48.

 

[BWR1953]

I agree with the others. If the boat is rated to take the 85, go with the most ponies you can get.

 

[Watermann]

I agree with the more is better with the list of choices, if the 95 isn't over the max HP then it shouldn't be any heavier than the 85, both the same V4 model.

 

[GA_Boater]

I agree with the more is better with the list of choices, if the 95 isn't over the max HP then it shouldn't be any heavier than the 85, both the same V4 model.

I think he meant 1995 48 HP. delms?

 

[Watermann]

I think he meant 1995 48 HP. delms?

I believe your right... :lol:

 

[GA_Boater]

I believe your right... :lol:

And it's too small.

 

[64osby]

[h=1]1972 Starcraft Marine Nova 18[/h]

This Starcraft Marine outboard runabout has a aluminum hull, is 18 feet long and 82 inches wide at the widest point. The boat weighs approximately 880 pounds with an empty fuel tank and without any gear or passengers. The maximum horsepower we have listed for this outboard boat is 140 hp .

 

[delms82]

Thanks for the feedback and yes the 72 Nova is rated to 140hp. My gut always said 85 but thought the newer prop rated 48hp (1995) and cmc tilt might squeeze out enough to plane out with 2. I usually stay 2-3 miles from shore when trolling or perching and not looking to tube or ski.

The Nova looks fast just sitting on the trailer so 85 it is. The 48 will be good winter project to update.

 

[MNhunter1]

Yep, the 85hp all day every day. My 15ft Nova is rated up to 65hp, so I think you'll be much happier with more ponies. Where are the pics?? :noidea:

 

[GA_Boater]

Yep, the 85hp all day every day. My 15ft Nova is rated up to 65hp, so I think you'll be much happier with more ponies. Where are the pics?? :noidea:

The Mob can be tough! LOL Novas look fast standing still with a 9.9 on the back. :smile:

http://forums.iboats.com/forum/owner...se#post7684055