Overpowering old boats

[ferrariman]

I have the option of buying a 1956 thane(simaler to areoliner) 16ft aluminum runabout. It's max hp is 50, but i hear that they measured hp back then differantly and if i were to put on a newer 50hp (sayt mid 90's) it might get a bit squirly. Whats your opinion? Also i have a 197? merc 50 bluestripe sitting on a other boat of mine, What kind of preformane could i expect with this motor on it with appropriate proping?<br />Thanx again<br /><br /> F-man

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Overpowering old boats

i think you 50hp would be quite a good match. as far as squirrely who says you have to run wot, you more economy (better milage) on the older engine at 3/4 throttle. "squirrely" you must be getting more experience, as didn't you want to run straight pipes on a motor to go fast and make noise. damn, it was fun being young.

 

[studlymandingo]

Re: Overpowering old boats

I concur; I really don't think the difference in the 50s is going to be enough to be considered "overpowered"; now a 150 may get "squirrely"

 

[steelespike]

Re: Overpowering old boats

As I understand it the difference in the old ratings and the post 1985 ratings is something like 5% hardly enough to tell the difference.<br /> Your Merc is rated at the powerhead like the other older motors.