Engine size

[samagee]

All:<br /><br />I have a 75 HP outboard, and it says that the maximum is 90 HP. Should I not go above 90 HP if and when I decide to upgrade? Thank you.<br /><br />Tom

 

[The Marine Doctor]

Re: Engine size

If 90hp is what they recommend...Do not over power. IN some places its against the Law. <br /><br />TMD

 

[JB]

Re: Engine size

Moving to Outboard general

 

[DJ]

Re: Engine size

Don't go over.<br /><br />As mentioned, in some states it is illegal. Many insurance companies won't insure you.<br /><br />If you overpower and have an accident, you are immediately at fault.<br /><br />Remember, todays outboards (since 1983) are rated at the prop. Older outboards (pre 1983) were rated at the powerhead. That relates to about a 10% difference in real performance.<br /><br />State laws and insurance companies do not care about this change. All they care about is what hp. the serial number says it is.

 

[ZmOz]

Re: Engine size

It's funny...every time I've seen this question asked at this board the answer is "don't even think about it", I've seen the question on other boards more than once and the answer is allways "They have HP limits?". In terms of safety, no, there is nothing wrong with overpowering your boat. In terms of stupid laws, insurance companies, and the sue happy idiots that are everywhere in todays world, you should not go over the rating. I know my CV-16 is rated for 120hp max, although it has had a 150hp on it for the last 30 years. Most other people I talk to that have this boat have the same engine. If I was really worried, I would take the cowl from a lower HP engine and put it on...but I'm not.