Required HP Question

[catabiadj]

I'm currently looking to buy a boat. I found a 1972 20' Seacraft Seafari. The boat has a 115HP 2004 Mercury 4-stroke. I am concerned that the boat is underpowered. I really want to use the boat for fishing and spending time with my wife and two daughters(4&7). How should I expect this boat to perform? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Derek

[oldbluesplayer]

I also have a 20' Seafari with a 115, however, mine is an older Johnson 2-stroke, so it is probably much lighter.

I top out over 30+ on gps, cruise nicely at 24-25, and can hold plane down to 16-18 in the slop - it is a very sea friendly boat. For your family, and your indicated useage, it should be fine.

The thing I would look for on the one you are looking at, is that the 4 stroke motor, being heavier, is going to make it sit lower in the stern, at rest, or below planing speed. If it has the original 20" transom, that motor cutout is going to be close to the water, but if it was raised to 25" when that motor was put on, then it should be ok.

just my observations.

good luck - get some pix if you can and post them here !

Bill

[catabiadj]

Thanks for replying. That information is very helpful. I'm going to ask the seller if we can do a sea trial. I will post pictures when I get them.

Derek

[nestorpr]

I DEFINITELY agree that you should seatrial the boat first, I know I did and found several issues with mine when I tried it, it helped me negotiate the price down over $1000! Good luck and keep your eyes and, more importantly, your EARS open for any weird noises as you try her out.

[Jon G]

115 TWO STROKE is ok had one, currently haze 140 FOUR STROKE I would not go less with the four stroke. Four strikes have a little differant power band and lack the low end torque that the two strokes have to get the boat out of the hole but once its up look out! Sea trial it maybee if its propped right it might just be enough.