CONTINUOUSWAVE

I recently acquired a 1994 Guardian 19. The horsepower capacity shown on the hull plate is 150-HP. I was under the assumption that an actual Guardian 19 hull [would be rated for] more than 150-HP

Please shed some light on this for me.

In c.1994 Boston Whaler was still identifying their commercial hulls with the federal manufacturer identity code (MIC) of BWC, the same as for their recreational boats. So there is no certainty that a boat was made by the commercial division from the HIN on your 1994 hull.

Boston Whaler changed their marking of commercial or government hulls to have a MIC used in the HIN of "WCG" (for Whaler Commercial Group) in 2001.

Is the model designator "GUARDIAN 19" molded into the hull gel coat on the hull sides of your boat?

I have a copy of Boston Whaler's 1987 commercial products catalog. For the 18 Guardian (a very similar boat to 19 Guardian), the catalog lists 150 as the maximum horsepower. However, the catalog also lists a "Transom Reinforcement Package" as an option, and further specifies that this option should be selected "where the factory recommended horsepower is exceeded or unusually abusive service is expected.”

I think it's reasonable to assume a number of commercial hulls were equipped with more than 150 horsepower. However, if you're considering more than 150 horsepower, it's probably worth searching this forum for information on re-powering the 18/19 Outrage/Guardian hulls. These boats are known to be sensitive to stern weight, and the performance with 150 horsepower will certainly be adequate.

Brad

Q1: is 150 HP model normally the same weight as a 175 or 200-HP model?

fina wrote:Q1: is 150 HP model normally the same weight as a 175 or 200-HP model?

The weight varies with the particular models and generally would require the exact same engine block, displacement, gear case were used. A 150 rated engine could be using a small displacement engine with fewer cylinders than a 200-HP, and a different gear case.

Bill--a 150-HP is the typical engine. I would look at weight of a two-stroke-power-cycle 150-HP engine as the goal. Lighter is always better.

You can test the intended engine weight on the boat at a dock by loading the splash well with the intended weightm then inspect the boat's attitude and transom clearance.

Regards,

--Phil