225 on 20' sf
 

I'm about to buy a 20 SF but the only thing I'm slightly worried about is that it has a 2001 merc 225 optimax on the back. The transom is closed in and the engine is mounted on a 18" stainless marine platform with floatation. The motor in a two stroke so at least it isn't as heavy as a four. Does anyone think this would be any sort of problem. I will also be putting bennett trim tabs on the boat when I get it. Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks a lot.

Re: 225 on 20' sf
 

I suspect the only issue you'll have is getting to the fishing grounds before the rest of us... :eek:

Re: 225 on 20' sf
 

Go for a ride . . . it's the only way to tell. 225 Opti's are 530lb motors . . . then again they hang them off litt'le bass boats.

Re: 225 on 20' sf
 

Go with Lenco trim tabs, no oil spills to worry about and they last longer.

Re: 225 on 20' sf
 

Seatrial

Check the waterline of the boat and make sure the scuppers work put a couple of guys in the back and make real sure. Has the deck been raised or is it original?

Without using tabs the bow may raise very high on takeoff, and may increase pounding and hull slap when coming off waves.

Review old threads on brackets for 20's (there are plenty)


Bennett Tabs-Yes...Lenco Tabs-No

Re: 225 on 20' sf
 

Sea trial...

Re: 225 on 20' sf
 

sea trial and Bennett tabs.

Re: 225 on 20' sf
 

As others have said...check the scuppers and see if you're taking on water. Keep in mind fuel load...cooler location (usually on is under the helm seat which is fairly far back in the 20)...loaded with ice, drinks, fuel, buddies...you might take a little water though the back...but IMO, a little water at rest under these conditions is not bad, just something that may happen with a bunch of weight in the stern. Hey, on the other hand, a 225 on that boat should lift the thing high enough to keep the drain plug dry!

Re: 225 on 20' sf
 

Capt Mac, I have no idea what experience you have had with Bennett's, But mine are 30 plus years old, and NEVER had an
"Oil Spil" or pump or ram failure. I have them on my flats
boat and my SeaCraft's. NO FAILURES.
Many of us on this site have them. Maybe you missed
CSC member Friend Ship's article/ad in Florida Sportsmen several months back, which featured his 23 with 30 plus year
old Bennett's that were the only thing re-used after his re-do. Likewise with me. Lenco's may be OK, but they haven't been around as long as Bennett. The only thing on my flats boat that gave a problem was the LED tab indicators, of which Bennett gave me a reasonable exchange after 10 years.
If you had a bad experience, they were installed incorrectly.
Mine name is NoBones, and I approve this message. See ya,