Upgrading Engine

[phipps]

We have a 24' pontoon that currently has a 28HP engine. We would like a larger engine. I've been thinking 50-60.

I have found several 40HP engines in my area for a decent price. My question is: would a 40HP give me enough HP gain to make it worthwhile?


Thanks,

Gary

 

[crb478]

Re: Upgrading Engine

You would have a definite jump over a 28, but still not a 60. I would look for a big gear case 60hp motor and take advantage of the torque it provides. If the 40 is cheap enough you could always test it out and then resell it when you find a bigger motor if it is not doing what you want it to.

 

[MH Hawker]

Re: Upgrading Engine

A 40 would pick it up some, you may gain 5 mph but that would be about it.

 

[airdvr1227]

Re: Upgrading Engine

Also, if you buy a different brand of motor than the one that is currently on your boat you might have some costs changing over the rigging.

 

[Rancherlee]

Re: Upgrading Engine

Since its a 28hp I'm assuming its a Johnson/rude SPL model which has a TINY 9.5" prop. A 40-50hp with a 12" prop would be a very worth while upgrade just for the extra thrust alone. I don't know why so many pontoons were equipt with 28spl but they where horrible choice for a pontoon motor. I hated mine and quickly sold if after I bought my pontoon as it took quite awhile to change directions and ALOT of throttle too to steer. A 60/70hp triple would be a nice motor too for not much extra cash, and those can be equipt with a 14" prop!