Newbie Questions

[weezyq8]

Hi everyone,

I have never owned a boat before, or even used one in the US (I am not from here) and the closest thing I have owned is a few jetski's. I just acquired an old Johnson 18hp engine which I got running with the help of some forum members, and I also have a ~14ft (I think) fiberglass jon boat that I would like to fix up a bit and use the engine on. I just have a few questions, that are probably pretty easy to answer. I live in central/southern Indiana, if that helps.

-What do I need to know about registering/getting a license for my boat? I will only be using it on public lakes and maybe rivers for fishing. There is a sticker on it from the previous owner but it expired in 09.

-Do I need boat insurance to use it? The whole boat is worth under $500 so I am not worried about it getting destroyed, but is it legal to not have boat insurance?

-Is an 18hp engine big enough for this boat, or will it be underpowered?

Thanks for your help.

 

[Jim Hawkins]

Re: Newbie Questions

Can't help you with the first questions but a 18HP Johnson is a powerhouse when running right and should make a 14' skiff fly.

 

[JoLin]

Re: Newbie Questions

Hi, weezy-

The individual states each have their own requirements for registering boats, motors and trailers. You need to check Indiana law to see what's required and which agency(ies) does the deed. In NY, any boat that operates with a motor needs to be registered, as do all trailers used on public roads. NY doesn't register motors, but some states do. Non-power boats (like sailboats, rowboats and dinghies) don't need to be registered, but add an auxiliary motor and you need to register the boat.

Insurance requirements also vary by state. Mine doesn't require it, but I think I'd be pretty foolish not to have at least liability and environmental damage protection.

My .02

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: Newbie Questions

an 18 is big for a 14' boat unless it has a steering wheel. Whether it's too big depends on the rating plate, as well as whether it's too heavy for the stern. You will need to shift the gas tank forward.

It may be too much power for a new boater, and many lakes restrict you to under 10 hp

SOunds like you don't have the boat title. It may be hard to register, and it must be registered. Start with the old hull number.

yes you need liability insurance. You don't need to insure the value of the boat, but it will come with it. You may already have liability insurance under your homeowners or renters insurance (yes you need that, too).

 

[WIMUSKY]

Re: Newbie Questions

An 18hp is not too big for a 14', even if it's tiller steer. Being that your boat is fiberglass, I bet it's rated even higher. Check your capacity plate as mentioned. An 18hp would be a good starter motor, unless your 12 years old......... That's how I got started. 18hp tiller on a 14' aluminum semi-v, it was rated higher. Liability insurance would be recommended. You at least want to cover the "other guy" just in case.........