15hp on starcraft.

[4.0l sahara]

Well last year me and my freind picked up a used starcraft and trailer for 150$. It is in pretty good shape. Today we added a small fish finder too it and resealed up all the seams. Last year we ran a 5hp on it. We thought the worn out plate said 15hp max. So I bought a 1956 15hp johnson. Now that I look closer I see it says max is 10hp. Is this going to be a problem. I belive a 1956 10hp is about the same weight as a 15hp? Should I worry or not? The boat is a little less than 14 feet long I think. Also don't know the year.

 

[JB]

Re: 15hp on starcraft.

Ordinarily I preach against overpowering any boat, but that Johnny 15 is just too sweet an engine to reject. Keep a close eye on your transom for flexing and don't use full throttle.

 

[4.0l sahara]

Re: 15hp on starcraft.

Wouldn't this be about the same a modern 10 since theye both arn't rated at the prop? Should I add the peice of ply wood to the back of the transom where the clamp mounts. I see that on alot of samll boats.

 

[4.0l sahara]

Re: 15hp on starcraft.

Any little tricks to make the transom a little stronger?

 

[wbeaton]

Re: 15hp on starcraft.

I'm with, JB on this one. I don't condone it, but I'd still do it. Use your best judgement on the water.

Even crank rated that motor is outputting over 10 hp. However, I doubt it will be a problem. I run 1950's 15 hp motors on my 12.3' boat max rated for 12.5 hp and its no problem. I replaced my 3/4 x 6" plywood transom with a piece of 2 x 6" clear spruce. I'd have used 1 x 6" White Oak instead, but the price was astronomical.

 

[4.0l sahara]

Re: 15hp on starcraft.

okay. So you think I should add the plywood to the back?

 

[wbeaton]

Re: 15hp on starcraft.

Can't hurt, but you might not need to. If you do add it, make sure not to use too thick of a piece or you won't be able to get the motor back on.

 

[4.0l sahara]

Re: 15hp on starcraft.

should work with 1/4" ply

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: 15hp on starcraft.

i actually think you are fine, it has a 1 1/2 inch transon. but 1/2 ply motor pad will not hurt. put some weight in the bow, or a partner. it is going to scoot real well. i had a 14 ft, with a 15 rude, stick steering and controls middle seat. would run 28 with me alone, 23 with another 200 pounder.

suggest this for your trolling motor. http://www.iboats.com/Transom_Motor...07535568--**********.848502129--view_id.39209