Boat Engine Size Rating

[Martman]

How close does one need to be to the tag on the boat that says how big of motor it will take?
I have a 17 foot deep vee with a 120 Johnson, it came new from the dealer that way. The boat tag says it is rated for 105 HP. But it has a 120, that now needs an overhaul. If I put a 150 on there will I be in trouble?
I see plenty of smaller boats than mine with much bigger motors than mine.
Is there any legal issues involved I live in Canada and the tag is supplied by transport canada. How do they arrive at the rating.

Thanks

 

[cr2k]

Re: Boat Engine Size Rating

The rating is usually set between the manufacturer and the insurance industry.
In the US over powering will negate any insurance you may be paying for.

I have seen 15 ft boats with 1/2 in aluminum plates on the transom running 150 hp outboards, they are fast but if the Coast Guard ever caught them or they had an accident there would be a lot of fines to be paid out of pocket.

 

[ezmobee]

Re: Boat Engine Size Rating

A 150 is probably a V6. That's adding a lot of power and weight. I wouldn't do it.

The coast guard doesn't care what engine you run. However, if you have some sort of accident, the insurance companies might care.