Repowering transom-gap outboard, installation?

[aaronwindward]

I'm looking at buying an 1972 Ericson 27. It was factory fitted with an outboard, but that motor has long since departed. The current outboard it has is dead, and I'd like to replace it with a completely new one, presumably 9 HP or 15 HP. (I specifically do not want to repower it with a used motor.)

1) What type of outboard do I need? Do new 2-stroke outboards still exist, or do I need to get a 4-stroke? The 4-strokes I've seen new are about $2K; is this about right, or is that paying too much?

2) How major of a deal is it to install the new outboard? Can I just drop the new outboard in, or will I need to drill holes in the transom? The previous outboard was clamped only, with no through-holes. I've attached some pictures of the old outboard mounting in case that's helpful.

3) Do I need to worry about getting an outboard that is not dimensionally-compatible? I know I will need to get the proper shaft length, but do I need to worry about the cowling fitting inside of the space available?

Edit: I think I may have been screwed by the outboard dealer. See my latest post.

[sailingdog]

Aaron—

The problem you're going to run into is that most modern engines in the size range you're looking at are going to be way too large to fit in that cutout. The cutout was designed for TWO-STROKE engines, which are generally a good deal more compact than their current FOUR-STROKE cousins.

You should probably get a 6 HP four-stroke with an extra long shaft. That would probably be about the largest engine that will work, given the size of current four-stroke engines.

[dabnis]

Aaron,

You might try to make up a crude template out of a
cardboard box using the proposed motor's dimensions.
I suggest you get the largest HP motor with the longest
shaft that will fit. I had a Coronado 25 with a 6HP 2 stroke
which was marginal for SF Bay conditions. Changed to
a 15 HP 2 stroke which worked really well.

Dabnis

[sailingdog]

Dabnis—

The template is a great idea. However, the OP isn't interested in getting a used motor, and I don't believe that they're selling new TWO-STROKE motors, especially in the People's Republic of California—which has stricter emissions standards than the rest of the country in many ways.

[dabnis]

Dog,
My thought on the template was for any motor he is
considering. From looking at the picture it looks like
the old motor may be a Evinrude/Johnson 9.9 or 15 Hp
2 stroke. Craigs List may be a good source if he decides
on a 2 stroke rather than a new 4 stroke, it's his call.
At least the old 2 stroke fits and even a good used motor
would be a whole lot less.

Aaron, electric start would be a good option along with
remote controls, almost as good as an inboard from an
operating standpoint.

Dabnis

[carl762]

Up round these here parts 4-strokes are going for $2,800 on up.

[casioqv]

AFAIK you can't get 2 strokes anymore. The new 4 strokes are much more fuel efficient, but the single cylinders have a bad vibration, and the two cylinders are much heavier and larger than the old 2 cylinder 2 strokes at the same power level.

A 2 stroke makes a lot more sense than a 4 stroke if you don't plan to motor long distances. Otherwise, you'll need to look at single cylinder 4 strokes and get used to the vibration (although they are quieter).

It's quite a shame you're not willing to consider used engines. I picked up a 1967 Evinrude for $200, and with another $100 in parts it's probably good for another 43 years of reliable use. It's your money though!

[dabnis]

Agree with Casioqv,

I ran my 15 HP Evinrude 2 stroke for 10 years, Wide open for
hours on end, never flushed it. It ran as when new when I sold the boat,
never had any problems of any kind. Scanning through Craig's List
many motors appear to be in good shape with not too many hours
on them. If you are selective and carefull you can probably find a
good 9.9 or 15 HP 2 stroke, like what appears to be on the boat in your
pictures. Best part is that it fits, although a long shaft model is
much better in the short high chop we have in the bay and outside.
I think Dog is right, the 4 strokes of equivelent power probably wouldn't
fit. As mentioned earlier I started with a 6HP on a boat smaller than
yours and had to change it to a 15 HP for inside and outside the bay.

[newhaul]

evinrude 15 h.O. the only one i could find new that says carb compliant myself i would do the cl thing for a good used unit. 15 hp keep up on zinks and impellers and all is good much better power to weight ratio.

[tgzzzz]

A used engine isn't going to make the OP happy. I loved the honesty of the post: drilling holes in the transom was a bigger deal than desired. Futzing with an old fashioned ignition will ruin the boating experience for this new skipper. I'm too lazy to post a link (nor do I know how) but I think Tohatsu makes small two stroke outboards that are sold online or at boat dealers.

Aaron, go with a new engine for sure. Push the button, it starts. Modern two strokes are great. The four stroke is much quieter though. A plus. I'll bet that the dealer where you want to buy a 4 stroke from can hook you up with a guy who can enlarge your engine well for under $100. A couple of years from now, you'd do it yourself.