Two 90 hp vs one 175hp outboard(s)

[the man]

There are probably threads on this already- but I could not find any.

If I put two 90hp outboards on a boat, or one 175hp, what will be the difference in actual power? I know 2 will weigh more, cost more etc. But I have no idea- will the two 90hp be the same as having a 180hp on there as far as speed, hole shot, fuel economy, etc- or better or worse?

I am thinking I want to do this for the redundancy / safety for offshore fishing excursions, wondering what comments people may have?

Thanks

 

[coolguy147]

Re: Two 90 hp vs one 175hp outboard(s)

175hp with a 9.9 or 15hp kicker. depending on how big your boat is.

 

[the man]

Re: Two 90 hp vs one 175hp outboard(s)

175hp with a 9.9 or 15hp kicker. depending on how big your boat is.

yes, i am aware of that option. but the boat would not plane with a 9.9, it would with a 90. if i am 20 miles or so away when i lose an engine, that's a huge difference and could be a safety issue with weather, currents, darkness, etc.

 

[JB]

Re: Two 90 hp vs one 175hp outboard(s)

The eventual costs of twice the drag, twice the weight, twice the controls and reduced top speed with twins need to be compared to the risk of power plant loss (moderated by an aux) and maybe a few fractions of a second gain in hole shot.

For far offshore, the security is comfortable but very expensive. You don't have to plane your boat to return to port, and an aux that can move you 6kt will get you there.

That would be my choice.

 

[5150abf]

Re: Two 90 hp vs one 175hp outboard(s)

Look up the GPH on both engines as well as the weight, the twins I think will burn more fuel and weight quite alot more so if your main concern is redundancy then go with the 2 if it is speed go with the single and a kicker, it may not be fast but it will get you home.

Weight kills speed so even though they are about the same power you are carring more weight so that offsets any gain and effectively gives you less power.

I am with JB and coolguy, go with the 175 and a 15 horse kicker.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Two 90 hp vs one 175hp outboard(s)

Normally a boat with twim motors will not plane on one motor, unless it is pretty overpowered.

 

[nwcove]

Re: Two 90 hp vs one 175hp outboard(s)

"Weight kills speed so even though they are about the same power you are carring more weight so that offsets any gain and effectively gives you less power." (5150)
i agree with 5150, jb and cool guy, if speed is your thing, the old adage is "to go faster, add lightness". id go with the kicker, just run it now and then to keep it happy.