Repower could add too much weight?

[eggsuckindog]

THe EFI Mercs come in at about 400 also, that really should be your max - if going new the 130 Etec would be a nice fit

[KenB]

How does the tohatsu 90 or 115 compare to the opti? Good dealer network up here, and I think the 140 (or 135) whenever tohatsu releases it may be a good option for a 20SF repower. Thoughts? Father Frank wrote a great reply on another thread about the tohatsu, but since tohatsu and Opti share the same orbital technology, which one is better? For SF20?

Also, how much does a bracket help/hurt the ride of the 20? I know it is basically a no brainer on the 23, but it sounds like it might be less clearcut with the 20. (i.e. old carb'd 2 stroke on transom versus 4 stroke/DI on bracket). On the 23, most people are looking at v6 4 strokes, so the bracket is basically required...

LAST QUESTION: why not just get a rebuilt fuel injected 2 stroke? (Ox66, etc.) I know shrimp also had some great old merc options.

[Bushwacker]

. . . Also, how much does a bracket help/hurt the ride of the 20? I know it is basically a no brainer on the 23, but it sounds like it might be less clearcut with the 20. (i.e. old carb'd 2 stroke on transom versus 4 stroke/DI on bracket). . .

The biggest difference I noticed was the significant increase in min planing speed. I was able to correct that problem with a 4-blade stern lifting prop and Doelfin. On a positive note, the geometry change with the 25" shaft and 30" setback evidently gives the motor more "leverage" on the boat, because power trim now has much more effect on running angle than it did with the 20" motor on transom, particularly at higher speeds. I believe this effect largely offsets the negative aspects of shifting the CG aft. If you have a large flotation tank on the bracket like the Hermco, that minimizes the effect on static trim, and seems to make the boat less sensitive to folks walkin around in back of boat or on swim platform. The waterline at the transom is within about an inch of what it was with original configuration; it's still self bailing at the dock, by about 1"!

Overall, if done right (big flotation tank and ~ 400 lb instead of 500 lb motor) I think a bracket is a great addition to the 20' hull. Elimination of the splashwell opens up a lot of usable storage volume and seating space in back of boat, and the big platform is great for diving and anchoring close to the beach!

[Garrison]

Thanks guys, plenty of ideas and advice to chew on. the weight is my biggest factor, not to jeopardise the ride. And will now consider putting a 115 on. Speed is not my main goal, but a quick plane is important. Fuel economy is obviously a big factor. I dont want to get into adding a bracket right now although the benefits are tempting. Just dont think it is absolutely necessary on the 20'. If anyone knows of a 115-150 good running motor give me a holler.

[eggsuckindog]

Thanks guys, plenty of ideas and advice to chew on. the weight is my biggest factor, not to jeopardise the ride. And will now consider putting a 115 on. Speed is not my main goal, but a quick plane is important. Fuel economy is obviously a big factor. I dont want to get into adding a bracket right now although the benefits are tempting. Just dont think it is absolutely necessary on the 20'. If anyone knows of a 115-150 good running motor give me a holler.

Big difference from 115 to 150 - 4cyl to 6 - once you get to 6 they all weigh the same 150 to 200. The 130 Etec in new maybe a very good option if inclined to going new, but I think it weighs in the same as a 200 EFI Merc at 400.