18' maycraft- 90 power ?

[iwhitevt]

I am getting ready to buy a new maycraft 18 skiff ( 18'-10, 1400lbs)with a yamaha 90. Should the 90 have enough power for this boat? the whole rig is going to run around $11k and they want another 2k for the 115.

 

[DJ]

Re: 18' maycraft- 90 power ?

I typically always try to power a boat close to its maximum. That doesn't mean you have to use it.<br /><br />The higher HP. will be much better in the resell.<br /><br />I assume you are talking two stroke engines. If that's the case, there is a BIG differernce between a Yamaha 90 and 115. The 90 is a three cyl. and the 115 is a V-4.<br /><br />If the 115 is a four stroke, $2K to upgrade is a good deal.

 

[72 mako 19]

Re: 18' maycraft- 90 power ?

if faster speed, higher fuel consumption, heavy loads, and a little bit longer of a travel time is not so much of a concern. then a 90hp for an 18 skiff is perfect. you can basically motor along as the saying goes with this set up.<br /><br />i have an 88 hp on my 19 footer, gets the job done for me.

 

[iwhitevt]

Re: 18' maycraft- 90 power ?

both the 90 and the 115 are 2-strokes. For the same price, they also offer a Johnson 90, which is the same displacement as the Yamaha 115. Would this be a better choice?

 

[JHH]

Re: 18' maycraft- 90 power ?

iwhitevt,<br /><br />I own the 18'10" Maycraft you are considering. Mine is powered with a 1995 Evinrude 90 horsepower V-4. Maximum horsepower the boat will take is 140. It's a great boat, but with the 90 horse it's a little under-powered. For tubing, water skiing, etc. it's slow out of the hole (especially for water skiing). Also, with several passengers & gear, it doesn't quickly jump to a plane. Top speed is about 35 mph, which is fast enough for me. However, unless the difference of $2,000 for the larger engine is a problem, I vote for the increased horsepower.<br /><br />Good Luck... the boat itself is a tremendous river/bay/ocean vessel. I've had mine 30 miles out... to the gulf stream.

 

[JHH]

Re: 18' maycraft- 90 power ?

iwhitevt,<br /><br />Forgot to mention... I own the center console, not the skiff. I believe my total weight is closer to 2,000 lbs. 90 horse for the skiff is probably plenty of power.<br /><br />Good Luck!