How to Choose an Outboard

In choosing outboards, size does matter.

Determining the type of outboard you need for your motorboat depends on the activities for which you will be using it. RYA Motor Cruising Projects manager Andrew Norton says if you plan to pull water skis or inflatable water toys, you will need an engine with a large amount of horsepower. The Mr. Fixit website suggests that the 15 to 20 horsepower outboards are ideal for this purpose. Or if you want to use your boat for personal recreation, you can choose a much smaller engine. But Norton says it is best to have too much engine than too little.

Instructions

1. Write out a list of intended uses for your motorboat.

2. Determine the amount of power you will need for the tasks for which you intend to use your boat. Research what levels of horsepower you will need to complete your task. The Mr. Fix It website is an example of a website that explains what type of motor you will need for your boat to do a given job.

3. Visit several sporting goods stores that carry motorboat accessories. Price a variety of outboards, with special attention to ones compatible with your intended boat usage. Write out the prices you find.

4. Attempt a conversation with the dealer. If he does not seem willing to talk, or to be forthright with you about the quality of his merchandise, strike his store off your list. Also ask him about the warranty on his motors, and even if such warranties exist.

5. Purchase the outboard that best fits your needs. Read the warranty thoroughly, until you've understood it. Put it in a safe place.

Tips & Warnings

• Using a motor too small for a large freight-bearing task can cause your motor to falter in the middle of the water. This could lead to serious peril, as you expose yourself to a variety of dangers, such as shark attacks or drowning. You could also receive a citation from a member of the Coast Guard, if they find that you don't have the appropriate motor for what you are attempting to do with your boat, if there are laws that exist in your city, state, or country.

• Do not run a small outboard at full throttle. According to Norton, it could cause you to achieve less miles per gallon from your motor. It is better to run a larger motor at a much lower speed. Otherwise, you will be spending more on a replacement engine at a future time. Running your outboard at excessive speeds can drastically abbreviate its lifespan.

References

• Goliath: Choosing an Outboard: What Buyers Need to Know
• Mr. Fix It: How to Choose the Right Size Outboard
• Boatpoint: Your Guide to Outboards

Resources

• RYA.org.uk: Andrew Norton