Outboard recommended for Helms 24

[Helmsman82]

I have a Helms 24 in Virginia on the Chesapeake bay. I need to replace the engine. It previously had a Nissan 9.8 HP long shaft and I have been planning to replace it with the same. I have been thinking about an extra long shaft: in rough weather the long shaft sometimes would come out of the water and it was hard on the back to raise and lower the auxillary outboard bracket all the way down. I also am not sure if I need that much horsepower. Any thoughts?

[OLEMATE]

82, I have the same engine on my boat which is on a small lake in Oklahoma. I know what you mean by hard to raise. The engine is heavy but I like its dependability. You may need the power to push through some weather if you are caught. You might consider finding a bracket that is easier to raise or may have an assist system to raise the engine. Good luck in your choice.

[Wayne25]

Helsman82:
Welcome to the board. On my Helms 25, I have a 3:1 block and tackle set up between the engine and the pushpit rail to make raising easier. Its a 15 HP Mariner.
Wayne

[tager]

9.8 sounds like quite enough for that boat. Maybe a high thrust prop and an 8hp would do.

[Guzzi]

A friend has a 9.9 Merc on a spring loaded bracket on a Helms 27. With a prop change that engine moves the boat along smartly. +1 on the longer shaft.