MONTAUK: Get-home engine

[kuskokwim]

I need a get-home engine for my new (old) Montauk. Haven't put it in the water yet. but [I] have a 90 Honda on the transom--which I hear from prior owners is more than enough weight in the stern. So I will carry the kicker anndput it on when needed.

I'm female, older, and not as strong as I used to be, and I live in Alaska with unpredictable water. I'm careful but will get caught in bad weather by definition. And the main engine will conk out just when I need it most. I have to be able to horse the kicker onto the transom when I'm getting bounced around.


[What is the] lightest, smallest, reliable, easy-start engine I can carry that will either get me into a sheltered cove or home?

[Phil T]

Given you are in Alaska where it can be very remote, weather changes can be/are quick and sometimes severe, I would mount the kicker on the transom and connect it to the fuel system and add a tie bar to the main motor.

When you run into trouble, you will not want/have time to install a kicker. It's a pita for those who are young-ish and in good shape.

Move the battery and any other items in the stern forward to the console. Consider the front bow cooler for dry storage.

[kuskokwim]

Thanks for response. Because of what you said I am seriously rethinking carrying the kicker, and instead thinking of mounting it. Also thinking that if I put the boat fuel tank in front of the console it will help bring the stern up a bit.

I am likely to go for a 4-HP two stroke and lighter engine.

And I will not be ocean bound much. Lots of harbors and islands around to duck into.