15' Whaler 3.5HP Kickr with 15" shaft?

[hskbvn]

Good morning all,
I am new here, and just bought a 1978 whaler 15 feet with a 2002 Yamaha 60HP 4-stroke (400 hours on the outboard).

I have a Minn Kota 80lb 24V trolling motor, but since it adds too much weight (motor + 2 batteries), I want to switch it for a Tohatsu 3.5HP kicker i have.

The problem is that this is a 15" shaft motor, so i bought a Garelick motor bracket, but it seem heavy, and sticks out too much.

I am considering just mount the Tohatsu without the Bracket, will this be ok considering the 3.5HP won't move the whaler too fast, so there would be enough water for the propeller to push?

Please give me some advises on this.
Thanks
hskbvn.

[Phil T]

Don't typically see a 13' sport with a kicker.

How remote or offshore are you transiting? Is Sea Tow available?

[hskbvn]

My current plan is only to run it in the lakes, slough or bay (i am in the Bay Area, CA) to gain experiences before going out for a few miles max (half Moon Bay, Monterrey)

I just want to have a way to get back to launch ramp if the main motor dies.

Thanks