13-footer or 15-footer Re-power E-TEC 30

[TK3]

[I] would appreciate feedback on my idea to re-power a c.2000 13-foot Boston Whaler boat or a c.1990 15-foot Boston Whaler boat with an E-TEC 30. Both weigh hulls weigh about the same 580-lbs. My thought is the E-TEC at 160-lbs is about 90-lbs lighter than a 40-HP engine using four-stroke-cycle design, and has added weight saving due to no electric starter and battery, saving another 50-lbs or more. Based on reading in the forums. I expect boat speed to be about 25-MPH

I have read nothing about pull starting an E-TEC 30.

[Reply with] your thoughts.

ASIDE: I just sold a nice 11.5-foot Boston Whaler. I am planning to move up.

[FlyAU98]

When I was small-Whaler shopping, I was searching for a classic 13 and 15 without an immediate plan or desire to re-power, but knew it would come eventually. I drove from San Diego to Long Beach to look at a c.1985 13 Super Sport that I was sure I was going to buy--until [I] jacked up and spun the trailer wheels and the bearings were shot. Not long after that I found a 1988 15 Super Sport that I ended up buying.

Every time I take out [the 1988 15 Super Sport boat with] two adults and one child aboard, I'm thrilled the bearings were bad on the 13. I had a 13 as a kid, but the 15 rides much better. The two-feet additional make a pretty significant difference inside. You lose a little side-to-side stability, but I think it[']s a fair trade.

The new style 13 is more adult-friendly, but I'd still rather have the bigger boat. The classic 15's drive like a little sports car, too--lots of fun.

I put a new Yamaha F70 on my 15 a couple years ago and never look back.

[TK3]

I agree with your thinking. This will be my last boat (unless I win the lottery), but reality is, even if I win, I will be very comfortable in an easily-transported hull that I am confident will keep me and passengers safe. The 15 is very appealing even if I would not be able to lift the engine off of hull to store during the winter. E-TEC engines are attractive for many reasons but Yamaha engines are a quality consistent with that of Whalers. Sharing your experience is appreciated. Thank you!

[jimh]

I also went looking for a 13-foot Boston Whaler boat and found a SPORT 15 instead. At the time I was completely unaware of the significant difference between the hull designs of the two. I loved the SPORT 15. I sold it with some great regrets to get an even larger boat.

[macfam]

My thought: For the 13', a 30 E-TEC is perfect. For the 15', a 50+ would be my choice.

[Oldslowandugly]

I agree totally with Macfam. 30hp on a 13ft is perfect. I have a 15ft with a 48SPL and I love it to death. Most put a 70hp on the 15ft but I prefer economy over crazy speed. I keep a 30hp around as a spare but don't think it would push the 15ft the way I am accustomed to.