8hp johnson

[pkrainert]

I just purchased a 2000 8hp Johnson for 400 dollars. I haven't seen many 8hp outboards out there and was wondering if it will have decent power and get me planing. It will be pushing my 12 Mirrocraft aluminum boat. weighs probably 175 pounds plus me (180) and the gear say 100 pounds or so.

 

[BaitThrower]

Re: 8hp johnson

It should do if its just you in the boat and eveything is properly set up and trimmed. Add a second person and it might struggle to plane.

 

[CATransplant]

Re: 8hp johnson

I have a similar boat, with a 6hp Johnson, the little brother of your 8hp. With just me in the boat, it runs about 15mph on plane.

You'll find that it'll be sensitive to weight distribution. You will probably have to move the fuel tank toward the center and, if you have a trolling motor and battery, mount the battery up near the bow.

If your rear seat is near the transom, consider moving it forward about 8-10".

With one person and the weight distributed well, it should plane just fine. Experiment with the tilt position until you find the sweet spot. If you add a second person, try trimming out one more hole. That works for me, but speed drops to about 10 mph. You'll do a little better with 2 more hp.

 

[pkrainert]

Re: 8hp johnson

one thing i was concerned about was that the motor sort of shutters at a certain rpm range. not sure what it is since i dont have a tach. but its a small range say 2000-2300. also i have it attached with the clamps and a saftey chain. i don't have bolts threw it where the holes on the motor mount are on the motor. I didnt want to drill into the boat unless i have to. should i put bolts in there as well or are the clamps sufficient?

 

[CATransplant]

Re: 8hp johnson

I don't know what's causing the shudder.

As far as bolting the outboard to your boat, I recommend it. It secures the outboard, and helps prevent theft. Small outboards are a hot item, since they're so easy to sell on Craig's List.

Use Stainless Steel bolts and nylon-insert nuts, with washers on the inside. Seal the bolts with a suitable marine sealant, and you'll have no problems.

If you decide not to bolt the outboard, check the tightness of the clamps each time you use the boat, before launching. They will loosen, I guarantee.

 

[Shizzy]

Re: 8hp johnson

Ill second (and third) what CAT said. I also have a 6horse Johnny on my 14'er and it does just fine with just me (155lbs) two people and gear it still does "alright"

I do find myself paying attention to where I have things placed. with the 8 horse you will be fine.