To much motor?

[FishingBoy]

I currently have a Johnson 115 on a '98 Larson 17'. The boat is having problems plaining out and getting out of the hole. I have an opportunity to buy a Mercury 175L EFI at a great price. Any ideas what the boat is rated for?<br /><br />I've checked with the insurance company about the motor being too big for the boat. They said there would not be a problem. If the motor is too big, should I get something in writing from them.<br /><br />Would a '98 Larson perform safely with a 175?<br /><br />Help please!!!

 

[DJ]

Re: To much motor?

Fishingboy,<br /><br />If your boat is a '98', it should have a yellow tag, somewhere in the interior that gives the max. hp. rating.

 

[FishingBoy]

Re: To much motor?

I recall seeing the sticker; however, I can't recall the rating. The boat is in storage at the lake out of town. Is there a book or website where I can find the ratings?

 

[ob]

Re: To much motor?

www.larsonboats.com<br /><br />They no longer make the 17 footer<br />The new 18 ft runabout is max rated for 150hp

 

[steelespike]

Re: To much motor?

FishingBoy,<br /> Have you tried trimming your motor and a prop to give you a better hole shot?Weight distribution,motor trim and propellor can make a huge difference in performance.<br />Unless your boat is a real porker I would think you could get a decent hole shot.<br />You shouldnt exceed the rating you could<br />create all kinds of trouble for yourself both structally and legally not to mention handling problems.<br /> Give your motor a physical,compression check ignition and carb tune up etc.It may surprise you.<br />You may want to check your boat to see if it has picked up some water weight.Fiberglass boats occasionally do that.