Stressing an Outboard

[Navigator]

I was out last weekend with the wife visiting some barrier islands off of Tampa and on the way back, I came upon a guy with an overheated "Force 125". Since I've been in the same situation several times, I gave him a complimentary tow back to the marina. It was only a couple of miles and my Honda 40 seemed to be pulling him with ease. <br />Is there any risk of damaging the engine by towing people. I'm not trying to run WOT, simply at a fast idle around 1500-2000 RPM.<br />I do this (give people a hand) about 4-5 times a year. I just always happen to be in the right place at the right time. <br />Am I risking any harm to myself by helping??<br />Thanks, Nav.

 

[JB]

Re: Stressing an Outboard

Howdy, Nav. I don't think you are putting your engine at risk, particularly because it is a 4 stroke. Besides, fortune protects good Samaritans.<br /><br />What really destroys engines, particularly 2 strokes is being "lugged". . . operating at wide open throttle but being loaded down to less than full rpm. That happens when a rig is "over" propped for what it is doing at the time.<br /><br />Fair weather.<br />JB

 

[markcv]

Re: Stressing an Outboard

Navigator<br /><br />A number of guys that live on the coast of Maine are using those Hondas to drag scolops. This is a far more load than you will ever put on yours. Most of the guys have gone to the Honda four stroke because they are excellent for this type of work. So keep up the good work. If I am broke down, I would be very happy to see you coming.<br /><br /><br />markcv

 

[Deerdog]

Re: Stressing an Outboard

It wont hurt it. In fact a little load on it for a while at that throttle range is good for it.

 

[Navigator]

Re: Stressing an Outboard

Thanks All,<br />Glad to hear I'm doing no harm. <br />If you're ever down in the Tampa,St. Pete,Clearwater FL area and you see a little green Boat with a shiny silver Honda towing another boat, Honk, cause it's probably me!

<br />Nav.

 

[cabowaboranger]

Re: Stressing an Outboard

i love clearwater area great place to pick up on those women from new york <br />i be coming back this jan or feb \ gulftobay ave babydolls cant wait

 

[ODDD1]

Re: Stressing an Outboard

Nav, as long as you stay off wide open throttle you wont build enough heat to do any damage......

 

[Easttxhunter]

Re: Stressing an Outboard

Start charging 50.00 bucks a pop on the towing. Put it in an account for future repairs and Maintence