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National One-design Cruiser/Racer

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outboard

7th June 2004

Simon Mackenzie

7th June 2004 at 7:33 PM

Looks like my old and heavy 5hp Yamaha has died. It would be nice to get something smaller and lighter, I see the Tohatsu was recomended by some last year. Most of the engines I can find now seem to be 4 stroke. I am told this is quiter and more environmentally friendly. Also seems to be heavier and more expensive. Also heard a rumour that if you get the prop above the engine (when stowed) then nasty things happen. Anybody got any comments?

Simon

StevenRolland

8th June 2004 at 11:16 PM

If the prop goes above the engine on any outboard you have problems, as water drains down the exhaust, into the cylinder which corrodes, seizing the engine. I believe manufacturers can sell 2-stroke outboards until 2006. You will still be allowed to use them and buy second hand, but not purchase new ones. I’m not sure I would fancy hefting the extra kilos over the side of a Sonata in heavy seas.

We have a Mariner 4Hp Sailmate which works excelently, and pushes the boat a lot better than our previos non-auxilary motors. From what I gather though most people on this site prefer the Tohatsu, and so I shall leave it to them to convince you. :)

On the plus side I think the second hand value of 2-strokes are about to go up, so depreciation on you new motor should be minimal!

martin hartley

10th June 2004 at 3:31 PM

WE USE A YAMAHA MALTA. THIS IS LIGHT AND HAS PROVEN TO BE EXTREMELY RELIABLE. ONLY PUNCHING INTO HEAVY SEAS OR A STRONG HEAD WIND DOES IT STRUGGLE.

8366

11th June 2004 at 8:56 AM

We use a Tohatsu, 3.5hp long shaft It is very powerful and moves the boat in all seas at a maximum of 5knts, only problem is that we can not you a remote tank, which would be useful on long trips.

Simon Mackenzie

11th June 2004 at 11:36 PM

Thanks for the advice. I have just bought a Mariner 4 2 stroke because it was available locally at a reasonable price and not too heavy. Even got a few pounds for my non-runner. Thanks to Forth Yacht Marina, a very powerboat oriented place, for very good service. As the boat is on a pontoon and I am not good enough to sail in and out, being able to get a replacement engine quick and not miss weeks of sailing was a key so its good to hear that Steven is happy with the same engine

Simon

Rookie

2nd November 2004 at 6:44 AM

Also needing to replace motor. We have a permanent bracket, so lifting on /off is not an issue. Would like know the practical differences between ” saildrive” and “sailmate” versions and standard versions etc. Also is a shortleg functionable or would we need longleg version. Would appreciate some experienced advice.

StevenRolland

7th November 2004 at 1:58 PM

Also needing to replace motor. We have a permanent bracket, so lifting on /off is not an issue. Would like know the practical differences between ” saildrive” and “sailmate” versions and standard versions etc. Also is a shortleg functionable or would we need longleg version. Would appreciate some experienced advice.

“Sailmate” engines have props espicially suited to pushing a heavy object slowly (i.e. a displacement vessel) as oppose to the normal props which are designed to push a relativly light planing craft at higher speeds. The Marina guy at the boat show reckoned there was a different gearbox involved, but the litrature suggests otherwise.

Assuming that your bracket is at the same hight as the original then a short shaft will work on the Sonata in good conditions, although in a reasonable swell you may find it venting or coming clear of the water.

We had a short shaft for a while and found we had trouble mooring as soon as the seas started to come up due to the fact you have to send weight forward. The engine could be out of the water for about 40% of the time.

Hope some of this helps.

Filed Under: Archives, Forum Archive, IPB Archive

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