what size kicker motor

[Timdawg]

hello, new to the forum. I have an Alumacraft 17.6' mod Vee bottom bass boat. it has a 75 hp mercury 4 cyl. I want to install a small kicker motor on it after being stranded this year on Lake Erie. I was thinking about a Mercury 4-7.5hp, install a tee fitting in the fuel line for ease of operation. any thoughts on what mounting plate and size motor?

 

[Scott Danforth]

welcome aboard.

I prefer a complete separate pickup vs a t in the line, however that is my preference

if you plan on using the kicker in rough lake erie weather, you may need to look at a 9.9 or 15. if you just want it for towing and backup for all except extreme weather, you will be fine with a 6 or 7.5. stay with twin cylinders as they run smoother than the single cylinders.

 

[Sea Rider]

Check if you can install kicker side of main and avoid a jack plate, mount whatever. Merc/Tohatsu 9.8 are top performers twin cylinders OB's in the portable range. One less size than their 9.9 brothers.

Happy Boating

 

[QBhoy]

Personally, I can?t see past what is surely the best small outboard ever made.....the 2 stroke yamaha 8hp. That good, I have two of them....haha.

 

[QBhoy]

I might also add that they weigh about the same as a modern 4 stroke 4hp. Very hard to get for a reasonable prIce though. Everyone wants one.

 

[Timdawg]

I just got a n older Merc 6hp with vary low hours. starts on first pull. I'm not going out far in Lake Erie anymore. I've herd too many bad stories. next is a jacking plate. it looks like there is enough room on the factory transom mount location even at full right turn .. might not need one. thanks everyone for your suggestions.