Power for a restored 18SF

[asdfhood]

My 18 SF is a 1987 with a 25" transom. Powered by a Yamaha 2 stroke 130, about 360 lbs. I would be concerned with any repower that exceeded 400 lbs also. I have been salivating over a Mercury 125 optimax, wt about 375 lbs. This is a new motor for 2010 and as of now I know more about it than my dealer, just from the merc website. The boss says I can't have one yet. Maybe i'll have to devise a "plan" even though the Yamaha is just fine.

[pjzabo]

Everyone - thanks for the feedback. I'm pretty sold on going four stroke. I appreciate the advice on the weight factor. I will focus on staying below 400lbs. I liked the Suzuki 140 because it had the best power-weight in the 100-150 HP range, but it is listed as 421 pounds with a 25 inch shaft. That new Optimax 125 sounds perfect, but I am hoping to find something 3-4years old at a lower price with all the controls. Guess I may need to focus on a 90HP motor. Does 90 HP push this boat nicely?

[Bigshrimpin]

I haven't run it yet, but I have a 2002 Suzuki 90hp in my garage that is going on my 18sf.

[McGillicuddy]

Father Frank has a 90hp optimax on his 20' Seafari. If remember right, he gets 34 mph top end, and right about 5 mpg at a 24-25mph cruise.

I think an etec 90 - 40 pounds lighter, would be a great match for the 18.

[pjzabo]

Anybody have real world performance numbers on the 18 with various motors? That 90 ETEC seems a nice match. I would really like to be able to cruise efficiently at 30mph when seas are calm, and wouldn't mind a top end in the 40mph range.