Motor Placement on Carolina Skiff J-12

[The_Spanish_Flea]

Hey guys, I just came up on a 96 Carolina Skiff J12 and also a newer (something like 2001 or so) 25hp Merc w/ electric start short shaft. Ive read some posts about a long shaft being too long... and a short shaft being too short... my question is.. what is the ideal height for this motor on this boat. Ive heard that a height which puts the cavitation plate (i guess this is what its called... the place one would mount a hydrofoil to) should be either an inch above or below the bottom of the boat. Is this accurate?

 

[kjdunne]

Re: Motor Placement on Carolina Skiff J-12

At or slightly above the boat's bottom is correct, lean to slightly above. Measure the transom height to see which engine you need, 15 or 20 in.
I think the J series would use a short shaft.

 

[mlukich]

Re: Motor Placement on Carolina Skiff J-12

I used the rule of the cavitation plate even with the bottom of the skiff... Worked out pretty well for me.

Also, nothing against iboats (great place) but have you checked out www.carolinaskiffowner.com ? Nothing but skiff owners there and all are very helpful. Between the 2 places (iboats and carolinaskiffowner) all your questions should be answered...

Mark