cataraft motor, how hard can you abuse an outboard with a prop guard.

C

CB Rob

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I've got a 16 foot AIRE cataraft that I would like to run with an outboard. considering 9.9 to 30 horses. Can an outboard take a few hits at 15 mph and live through it? I would like to be able to use the motor in whitewater, shallow water, and have a safe prop guard for rescueing swimmers. Ive looked at army surplus "jet pumps", that are real similar to conventional outboard. they seem reasonably priced and come in a 30 hp johnson. The normal outboard jet doesnt sound compatible with a cat hull. any suggestions? <br />Rob
 
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BF

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Re: cataraft motor, how hard can you abuse an outboard with a prop guard.

haven't had any direct experience, but... I think if you're running an OB in shallow/rocky water you'll be lucky to not damage something if you hit (break off skeg, crack gearcase etc). I don't think it's reasonable to expect to be able to "take a few hits", even with one of those jet conversion things (I've seen 'em online too). How would they do if you run 'em into gravel?? Not good I'd guess! Might be good for around swimmers etc, but they don't look any more rock/gravel proof to me than a typical lower unit. (just the props not exposed)... Probably more difficult to repair or get parts too.<br /><br />anyway, that's my $.02.<br />Brent
 
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crazy charlie

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Re: cataraft motor, how hard can you abuse an outboard with a prop guard.

Get a hovercraft!!!
 
C

cobra 3.0

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Re: cataraft motor, how hard can you abuse an outboard with a prop guard.

...a sea doo would be the ticket.
 
C

CB Rob

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Re: cataraft motor, how hard can you abuse an outboard with a prop guard.

Ya know, a seadoo might be the ticket. I wonder how a jet ski would work as a third hull in a tri hull set up. I had considered mounting the smallest stand up ski I could find between the tubes. It would be pretty safe, and fairly splash proof. If you mount a jetski between to pontoons you end up with a rib, right? I wonder how the park service would see it when it comes to boating in NO JETSKI zones.
 
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