Recommendation for an electric outboard?

[Mohan Pakkurti]

hi!

I am looking for recommendations for an electric outboard motor for an 18feet wooden sailboat with a long keel, that is sailed most of the time. I just need a motor for situations like getting in and out of the club, and also for intermittent use when sailing conditions are bad etc.

Can someone who has used an outboard electric recommend a brand or model?

Thanks for any tips.

Mohan

[sharpii2]

Hi Nohan.

You need about two pounds of thrust per one hundred pounds of boat. I give you these figures because here, in the USA, these motors tend to be rated in thrust, not horsepower. You may be able to get away with less, but don't expect to go anywhere near hullspeed. Even so, It sure beats paddling.

Mini Kota is a favorite brand around here.

Most of these motors that I see are used to push 2000lb runabouts at about two knots which is a favored trolling speed. I would expect similar performance with your (probably) heavier but less draggy sailboat.

Bob

[PAR]

I regularly use a 54 pound trolling motor to push a 23' sailor, she displaces about 2500 pounds. I've never clocked her, but doing better then 3 knots easily.

[mattotoole]

You might find out what Schock uses in the Harbor 20, a similar boat that comes with an electric outboard.