Dinghy Outboard

rjcaudle · #1 (**permalink**) 09-07-2011

Need outboard for 12' dinghy. Can go 9.9 to 15hp.

I have been told Yamaha is the best outboard in this size.

Would welcome comments. And is it worth trying to find a pre-owned or just go with a new if one can afford it?

rjc

welshwind · #2 (**permalink**) 09-07-2011

We have a 15hp two-cycle yamaha on our RIB. With three in the boat (and weight properly distributed), I can get it up on plane which is nice. I wouldn't be able to with a 9.9. With four in the boat, I cannot get it up on plane.

padean · #3 (**permalink**) 09-07-2011

I have a 9.9 hp Merc on my 12' rigid inflatable which is plenty of power to get up and plane even with 3 adults in the boat. Anything bigger is probably overkill and the additional weight will make it harder to take the motor on and off IMHO. I chose a new motor to go with a new dinghy, since I plan to keep both for many years. Used motors will save you significant $ though, and are generally reliable.

TQA · #4 (**permalink**) 09-07-2011

Tohatsu 15 or 18 hp 2 stroke is my OB of choice.

On the other hand I am currently running a 25 year old Johnson 15 hp 2st which came with the big boat and it has been reliable and an easy starter. It also has a built in anti theft device. No one else down here with any self respect would run one. So nothing wrong with a good used one.

However check spares availability in your chosen cruising area. That is why Tohatsu would be my choice for my area.