Repower

[MikeG]

I am new to this site and I have a 1999 23 with a 250 Merc EFI, I am looking to repower with a Yamaha 250 or 225 4 stroke. My question is do I need a 30" shaft or can I get by with a 25"? I have seen other 23's with 225's but I am not sure of the shaft length. I really hope you guys can help.

[strick]

You should be able to use a 25 inch shaft. Thats what most of us have. What was your Merc? also are you using notched transom or bracket?

strick

[MikeG]

Strick
My Merc is a 30" with a bracket. The website said for a single that I needed a 30", I didnt know if this was the be all and end all. Thankx for the quick response.

[strick]

Well I know that if you use a bracket with a very large flotation chamber you will need a 30 inch shaft motor say a twin engine bracket using a single engine will take a 30 inch shaft. I have a bracket and a 25 inch shaft motor. I like the idea of a 30 inch motor on a bracket keeping the powerhead up a little higher. I hope I helped some...I know I did not give you a strait answer.

strick

[FELLOW-SHIP]

If you measure the length from the top of the transom where the motor is located to the bottom of the V I think your boat should measure 30” in length. The most preferable transom mounted motor height for your boat is 30” to prevent water from sloshing back into the boat when you are drifting or backing up. If I were you and this is your situation I WOULD NEVER cut down my transom to accommodate a smaller shafted motor no matter what kind of a deal you might find for a 25” shafted motor, and if I was doing a transom job on a boat with a 25” transom I would take this opportunity to raise it to 30” With Out a Doubt. The 23’ SeaCraft is a ocean boat and the ocean can some days be a nasty environment. 5 inches can make a lot of difference when the weather gets really nasty.

FellowShip

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My motto: Just for the Grins

[MikeG]

Guys THANK YOU so much. You really helped me a lot, now I see the reason for going with the 30" shaft. Thank you for all of you input.

[flatscat]

Mike - what are you plans for your 250 EFI Merc.when you repower???? Please let me know. Please reply directly to my email address. Thanks

[captbone]

I am also interested in your 250hp 1999 if it is for sale.

Thanks