[Fr. Frank]

Originally Posted by uncleboo

I would not want anything smaller than a 140 on an 18, ...39 in an 18 is flying to me!

I have an ETEC 90 (avg actual 101 prop hp) on my 1987 (CSY-built, not Tracker) 18', but with the large 4.75" V6 gearcase. Planes in about 4.5 seconds, top speed running from a thunderstorm with 45 gals fuel, 4 adults and gear is about 31-32 mph.

It runs 36 mph at WOT lightly loaded and trimmed out. Cruises best at about 4000-4200 rpms at 24-25 mph. Holds plane down to 11-12 mph without trim tabs but with Hydro-Shield under the prop for stern lift.

Unless you really feel the need to travel at 40 mph+, the 90 Etec is fine for the 18' and light weight.
(And yet my 1987 '18 by CSY is actually placarded for 200 hp max instead of the later Tracker models and earlier SCI models which are rated at either 140 or 150 hp, although I have seen an '86 CSY 18' rated for 175 hp)