outboard swap good idea or not???

[dinkstar]

I have a 1989 Maxum 1700 the boat came with a 85 hp force with no power tilt, the motor is giving me problems. A guy in my neighborhood has a great functioning 1986 force 125 with power tilt that he wants to sell. My capacity plate is a new one issued by Pennsylvania Fish Commision, It states that the boat could handle up to 150 hp. I of course would like to have MORE HP but really don't want to overload the transom and sink the boat.
So my question is is this swap do-able? Would you do it? or do you know someone who has done it with a similar boat. All suggestions are welcome.

 

[Titanium48]

Re: outboard swap good idea or not???

Unless the boat is already very stern-heavy with the 85, I'd be inclined to trust the government-issued capacity plate and go for it.

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: outboard swap good idea or not???

Everything swaps in easily. The 125 will only weigh about 30-40 pounds more than the 85 and once you have power tilt/trim you will never want to be without it. Sounds funny that the fish and boat commision ratyed the boat for 150; I would have expected 115-125 but if the capacity plate says it, then go for it.

The earlier Force uses clamps for the top transom mount so you will need to fill the top two holes, but the earlier transom clamps are better anyway. Control cablea are the same and ignition switch is wired the same-- all you need to do is slap on the engine and hook up the wiring at the terminal board.