Kicker Specs

[James Francis]

I have a 22 foot center console inboard and I intend to get a kicker for auxiliary power. Does anyone have any experience or input in selecting a specific HP? The boat is a dory style (modified V with a convex/round bottom) and weighs about 4000 pounds fully loaded. I am just unsure if a 9.9 would push it along at a safe speed. I tested a 5 HP and it barely moved the boat.

Any input would be a help.

Thanks,

Jim

[mackid068]

needed horsepower=3 to 4 hp minimum per ton of displacement, 5 hp for ample power. I'd go with a 9.9 hp, yeah. It might be a little fast on full throttle, but it's probably the best option unless you can find an 8 hp, which is certainly available (Mercury makes one) because your boat weighs about 4000 lbs, which is equal to about 1.81 metric tons. 9.9 is more than needed, but should be fine, 8 would be about right, but a little more, if you know how to control it, is probably ok. Remember, though, dory hulls aren't built for speed, despite the fact that it is a deep V (I think...)
Addition: I heard about equation for flat bottom boats, multiply LOA by beam at widest point. Length x Width

(Copied from boaterexam.com, never heard of it)

35 or less

3

36-39

5

40-42

7.5

43-45

10

46-52

15

However, this may not help. Go with the 9.9 unless you can find an 8

[James Francis]

Thanks very much for the information - I was going to go with a 15hp to have adequate thrust but it sounds like the 9.9 is sufficient.

Jim

[mackid068]

Alright! Good luck! By the way, did you try the formula? LOA times beam?

[James Francis]

Thanks again, Do you think the the stock prop will work or should I look at a different size and pitch?

[mackid068]

Sorry for the lateness of my reply. I don't know. Check with your local marine store.