1963 13-footer
Posted: Sun Feb 14, 2021 10:14 pm
For a 1963 13-footer I will buy a new engine; I plan to decide among Yamaha 25-HP, Mercury 30-HP, and Yamaha or Mercury 40-HP engines.
I have seen many boats [presumably 13-footers] with 40-HP engines, but the weight [of a 40-HP engine] seems to cause the boat's static trim to settle a bit to the stern. I've only seen this in pictures. I know that installing the woodworking farther forward and moving the battery forward can help [reduce the effect of engine weight].
Q1: can excess engine weight still be an concern?
Q2: would a 25 or 30-HP engine have enough power for my demands?
Q3: would the 30-HP engine be of a significant advantage over the 25 hp engine?
Q4: would a 25-HP and 30-HP engine perform very similarly?
I am open to any other suggestions. I am open to hearing any information from anyone willing to share.
I plan to get the engine installed in April or May 2021. I hope to order the new engine ahead of that time.
BACKSTORY: I bought a 13-footer that had been converted to a fishing boat. I'm in the process of restoring it, and am currently waiting on my new mahogany to arrive and some less frigid temperatures. I intend to install Nauset Marine's transom riser and wedge. Although I don't personally fish, I'm interested in a boat that can carry between one and four people, and can tow tubers or skiers. I understand there isn't a perfect solution for all these uses. I'm looking for the best compromise.
I have seen many boats [presumably 13-footers] with 40-HP engines, but the weight [of a 40-HP engine] seems to cause the boat's static trim to settle a bit to the stern. I've only seen this in pictures. I know that installing the woodworking farther forward and moving the battery forward can help [reduce the effect of engine weight].
Q1: can excess engine weight still be an concern?
Q2: would a 25 or 30-HP engine have enough power for my demands?
Q3: would the 30-HP engine be of a significant advantage over the 25 hp engine?
Q4: would a 25-HP and 30-HP engine perform very similarly?
I am open to any other suggestions. I am open to hearing any information from anyone willing to share.
I plan to get the engine installed in April or May 2021. I hope to order the new engine ahead of that time.
BACKSTORY: I bought a 13-footer that had been converted to a fishing boat. I'm in the process of restoring it, and am currently waiting on my new mahogany to arrive and some less frigid temperatures. I intend to install Nauset Marine's transom riser and wedge. Although I don't personally fish, I'm interested in a boat that can carry between one and four people, and can tow tubers or skiers. I understand there isn't a perfect solution for all these uses. I'm looking for the best compromise.