Doubling the HP/options more than doubled the weight.

[keninaz]

I bought a heavier 14' boat last Spring with ta 9.9 HP motor and that was the minimum recommended HP for the 350# (empty) boat. I soon found that the resulting performance and top speed (12 MPH loaded) was less than I wanted and ordered a new 20 HP motor to replace the 9.9. The aluminum hull is actually rated for a 30 HP maximum motor.
And this time I got the electric start and the power trim options to help save my older back (had surgery twice so far) so that I can keep boating and fishing hopefully a few more years.
But adding the options and doubling the HP came at a weight cost. The new motor came in at 168# compared to the 9.9 around 90#.
I was surprised to try and lift the motor up to put in on the stand for testing and found it was not within my ability anymore. Oh well, once it's on the boat it will never come off again within my lifetime.
I think I know now why most websites will only quote you the lowest weight within the class of motor.

 

[flyingscott]

They quote the lowest weight because it's the cheapest all your options added weight and money. Your options are the weight difference my 2 strk evinrude 25 hp is 130#

 

[keninaz]

It was just surprising that the PT and electric start added some 40# to the motor. Oh well, such is life.

 

[GA_Boater]

Your local dealer could have answered the questions.

Electric motors are heavy and there are two of them, plus the weight of the hydraulic cylinders. 40 pounds isn't a big difference.

 

[keninaz]

No, my local dealer did not know the weight of the 20 ELHPT motor. I ask when I got his price before I ordered online.

 

[flyingscott]

The convenience of those options more than make up for the weight penalty and the dealer should have known. Enjoy your new motor for years to come

 

[fishin98]

Sounds like you purchased a new 4 str with all the options.....should not be much of a issue...ENJOY!!!!

 

[keninaz]

I have to agree. Other than the price upfront I think the options will help me enjoy boating and fishing for many more years to come.

 

[Frank Acampora]

You will never regret the electric start and most especially the electric trim. Once you have had an engine with it you will never want one without it.

HOWEVER: Do not expect to double your speed. The general rule of thumb is that it takes four times the horsepower to double the speed. Thus with twice the horsepower you might expect to gain about 50% more top end-- so figure about 18 MPH. Perhaps a little more if the hull was not planing with the 9.9 and now is getting on plane with the 20.

And as one retiree to another: A bad day boating beats the hell out of a great day at work. LOL

 

[keninaz]

My boat currently will only make about 12-13 MPH as measured with a GPS and it does not plane until just over 8. I will be happy with 18 or so and I think I will get all of that with less throttle once I plane out.