could 2 minnkota elec. motors, 36lb thrust each, move a 24' sailboat?

Discussion in 'Sailboats' started by mrdc, Mar 23, 2011.

  1. mrdc
    Joined: Mar 2011
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    mrdc Junior Member

    hi

    wondering if it'll work?

    obviously it wouldn't go fast, but would it troll along ok?

    thanks
     
  2. CatBuilder

    CatBuilder Previous Member

    I've read that 50lbs thrust is approximately equivalent to 1HP.

    This is just a rough guideline, but useful.

    You'll have the same as a little under a 2HP outboard.

    The boat will move in calm conditions, but if the wind picks up (and you're not sailing), you won't be able to control the boat.
     
  3. gonzo
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    gonzo Senior Member

    I had a 3.5Hp on a 25 footer and it was adequate. It would go forward against the wind on up to maybe 30Kt of wind. More than that it was marginal. However, if it is windy you don't need an engine.
     
  4. mrdc
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    mrdc Junior Member

    thank you.

    how much hp would i need to control it?
    5 or 7 or more?
     
  5. mrdc
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    mrdc Junior Member

    sorry i must have posted at the same time as gonzo.
    my bad.
     
  6. BATAAN
    Joined: Apr 2010
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    BATAAN Senior Member

    Here's a rig another guy and I designed and built on-site in 3 days using 36v trolling motors while working in the Bahamas on Pirates 3 in 2006.
    These are in two of the 18' boats and one of the 14' we were using.
    I have no idea of the HP but each of these would tow a string of ten or twelve period small boats with actors in them upwind at a fine clip.
     

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  7. mrdc
    Joined: Mar 2011
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    mrdc Junior Member

    Sweet set up. I'm thinking this is possible now.
     
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