What size outboard do I need?

[MidlandsOnSea]

I've not previously had an outboard for our dinghy, but am now tempted by being offered a 2hp Honda 4 stroke, almost new, at a good price. But, will it be powerful enough for us? It would be for an inflatable which is for 3/4 people, and we'd simply use it for trips to/from the shore. Not bothered about speed, but would want it to be able to make way through a reasonable tide. Your views appreciated as always.

 

[bluepippa]

Weight may be an issue with a 4 stroke, however 2Hp will be enough for short distances. You may want to go for a little bit more if you intend to go greater distances, or go anywere with a swell.
Ive been using a 2hp for years and only recently gone upto 3.5hp..... wow what a difference, its nice to have some power in reserve if you need it !

 

[hlb]

2HP is a bit small iff theres any current. 4HP is about right. Depends where you are I suppose.

 

[Nick_H]

The 2 hp Honda 4 stroke is as light as a 2 stroke, and much quieter and you don't have to fill it up as often. It will be fine in all but the strongest tides. If you have to lift the engine off the tender regularly, then its the only choice as far as I'm concerned.

 

[longjohnsilver]

Sounds like w2ith your intended load it won't be quite enough ooomph. I also have a 2 hp which I only use in harbours with almost no tide, it's painfully slow otherwise!

 

[Jobs_a_ good_ un]

We have just switched from a 2 hp tp a 5hp yamaha against any sort of tide with 4 of us in it went about half a mile an hour and didnt feel it had enough poke to get us out of any sort of trouble should it happen

 

[itsonlymoney]

Cant see a problem with a cheap and lightweight 2 stroke 2.5hp just for hopping to shore. Mercury 2.5hp engines are now available for £299 I believe a new model will shortly be introduced, therefore all the stock needs clearing. Suppliers have apparently been told to sell em off at this price. Brand new in a box with 12 month warranty for the price of a second hand summat else. (incidentally this price applies to Mariner, Tohatsu and suzuki also cos its the same engine)
Ian

 

[hlb]

Perfectly ok on Windermere. /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

 

[Deleted User YDKXO]

Depends on the weight of the dinghy as well. If its not a RIB then probably 2hp is enough. If its a RIB, then 2hp will be very slow
You dont say whether the outboard will be lifted off the dinghy every time? If it is, then I would stick with a 2hp as even a 4hp is a struggle (for me anyway). If the outboard is permanently attached then I would go for a 4hp outboard 'coz it will give you a bit in hand for pushing a tide and one day you might need it

 

[itsonlymoney]

Point taken. May be a tad underpowered in a current spose /forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif

 

[whisper]

"And much quieter" - Oh no it aint. Is aircooled and is much noisier, especially at lower revs. However, should be adequate for the job and only the Suzuki 2 hp 2 stroke is lighter and that doesn't have forward & neutral gears. I've hardly used my Honda but am impressed with it, even though you have to be careful which way you lie it down.
There's been a quite recent comparative report on small outboards in one of the mags. - perhaps Sailing Today - worth a search.

 

[Kawasaki]

Yamaha "Malta" 3.5 that thinks it,s a 4 Hp should do the trick.

 

[Alistairr]

I want a Yamaha 4hp, but SWMBO won't let me, now that she wants a new boat!!! /forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif /forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif

 

[itsonlymoney]

I used to have one of them. Did'nt know they still made em. They were a good engine from memory.