Looking for small onboard engine

[dst1000]

Hi,

I am very new to sailing, I just purchased a 9' 7" SeaEagle inflatable boat. I can attach only a max 3HP engine to it. So I am looking to buy an onboard engine just to go fishing in Long Island sound. I do not want to go to far and I am not looking for anything big. I only have one hand so the weight issue is huge for me. It has to be light weight. Can anyone recommends anything to me? I was looking for 2HP Honda (22 lbs) which is air cooled but it could work for me. So something in this range of weight is great for me.

Thanks

[emoney]

Why not consider an electric motor? They're sold as "Trolling Motors", and outside of the weight of the battery, which is separate, the motor itself is MUCH lighter. With a "Max HP" rating like you have, a 70ish LB rated trolling motor should move the boat fine, definitely as well as a 2hp gas outboard. They're quieter, easier to install/remove/store, cost nothing to operate, and require one less piece of equipement (fuel tank).

[dst1000]

And what size batteries I should get?

[emoney]

Normally the trolling motor will have a recommended battery, but usually any good marine battery will do. You'll want to pick up a battery charger at the same time. Make sure you pay attention to said charger, because cheaper isn't usually the best route to take. There are automatic "on-board" battery chargers that allow you to just "plug it in" when you're finished and the charger will do the rest. Big box stores are carrying trolling motors as well, just to give you a place to start your shopping. Obviously the "West Marine's" of the world will carry them as well. Or, "Bass Pro Shops" is a good place too. They'll also carry the battery and charger as well.

[sidney777]

Hello. First I would get into the Sea Eagle on the water. I had a sea eagle and it was non-supporting for me and instructions said don't inflate very much. It did not work for me. Maybe improved now.
Does it have a board in back to put the Motor on, or do you have to tie a board on back ?
How are you launching the dinghy ? Off sailboat or land ? Is dinghy in the water all the time ? It is hard to lift a good size battery (50 lbs) on and off the dinghy.
I have an electric motor and it is a pain to charge it all the time.
*A Honda or other small outboard is my next choice.
Some small outboards do not have reverse, so you have to turn motor around.
after lauinching my dinghy with motor, battery, lifejacket, fishing poles, depth finder,etc; I see why some use a trailer even with a small dinghy.

[SHNOOL]

I hate to disagree with anyone, but just any marine battery would likely not work well for an electric motor... he'd need/want a deep cycle battery, not a cranking battery. Cranking batteries would likely not hold up well to many charge cycles, deep cycle batteries are better suited to a trolling motor use (as many bass fisherman will attest).

The gas engines would/could also contain the fuel tank... meaning 1 thing to move, instead of 2.. and could be supplemented with more fuel easily.

[sidney777]

Yes, I also vote for Gas Motor. But,would still like to know some answers to above questions.

[dst1000]

Hi,

I appreciate your comments here. This is a fantastic site.

I am replying to Sidney777. Yes it does have a board in the back which I can attach up to 3HP engine.

[sidney777]

Is the dinghy always in the water ?

[dst1000]

No.