SmallCraftAdvisor.com

On my current boat I have a 55 kw Minkota trolling motor and it pushes my little 16 footer just fine. However, I am still considering buying the Catalina which does not have a motor. What would be the smallest motor you would advise for a boat this size? Most of the 22 to 25 footers here are running 5 hp or more. Can I get by with smaller. Also, what is a good source for small motors? I will have to go used since a new one is way over my budget.

Thanks

I agree about 5hp and more. A smaller one would certainly move a 22' boat well in calm conditions but you could meet strong currents or other conditions and that could mean trouble!

I feel that a 2 strokes motor can deliver more torque than the newer 4 strokes but it is just my opinion.

Also, a 5 or 6 hp motor usually has a reverse gear included. That can be handy at times.

Michel wrote:I agree about 5hp and more. A smaller one would certainly move a 22' boat well in calm conditions but you could meet strong currents or other conditions and that could mean trouble!

I feel that a 2 strokes motor can deliver more torque than the newer 4 strokes but it is just my opinion.

Also, a 5 or 6 hp motor usually has a reverse gear included. That can be handy at times.

Since I sail in an enclosed lake currents would not be an issue. However, high winds might be.

Maybe Small Craft Advisor could do a survey and article on motors and sizes . Hint Josh, Hint hint

That is a very good idea!

Michel wrote:That is a very good idea!

Josh

Are you listening huh, huh????

This will vary from area to area but to get a good used motor a minimum of three hundred dollars. This would be a two stroke motor. Age is not as important as condition. The older motors do not like alcohol in the gas. A product called Sea Foam is also your friend when it comes to used motors. When you look around in the used motor market very few are wore out most are abused from neglect.

Some times you have to buy the boat motor and trailer to get the motor.
good luck in your hunting.

at Lake Dillon, Colorado, the rental Catalina 22 fleet are using a mix of motors (depending on age of boat and if the motor has been replaced). they are in the 9HP range.

IMO for lake sailing i would use a smaller motor to save weight and fuel cost ... like a 5 or 6HP.

the J22, J24, and Moore 24 fleets all use Honda 2HPs.

most folks want too much engine for the boat.

In the 1970's and 1980's my brother and I sailed on Lake Michigan in a Catalina 22, that had a 2 stroke 6hp Evinrude for auxillary power. We would sail each summer for a one or two week vacation. Entering the mouth of a channel when Lake Michigan was rough could be treacherous, but the outboard always keep us under control. We never felt underpowered.

Ken

I am currently sailing a 1981 or so Edel 665 (22 ft) keel boat. I have the original 7.5 hp Evinrude on the back. Good old motor and I'm sure the newer ones deliver a ton more torque and HP in a smaller size.

My greatest challenge is the length of the motor shaft. My next motor will have a long shaft to keep that prop below the water line when it gets rough.

A fellow down the dock has a similar vintage 9hp Evinrude. He thought of upgrading, but the dealer suggested that the new engines with the amount of torque they deliver will twist the engine mount right off the stern. Possible but he'll require a lot of additional support back there!

Cheers,

Greg