Auxiliary power for Vac

[Florin {VACATIONER}]

We've been procrastinating long enough now about getting an outboard for Barbarella. I think it is time we got one. Just curious what HP everyone has on the Vacs and how happy they are with them. We are sailing on lakes only (relatively small where we can see the other end) so we don't have to worry about currents or tides of any sort. We only need the motor for docking/undocking and possibly for when the wind is too strong/weak. I recall the norm was to use a motor with a long leg... how long is a long leg? Meaning if I buy a used one and have no means of comparison to a short leg, how could one tell? Is there a standard dimension, and where does one measure from?

What about motor mounts? Any particular designs which works better than others?

I am building a 15' driftboat as well and would really come in handy if I were able to use the motor on both boats (since we'll only be taking one out at a time). The driftboat allows for 10HP max (not sure whether the driftboat needs long/short leg). Would be nice if I could find a happy medium for both boats.

Any input would be appreciated.

Thanks

Florin

[Barry Pyeatt]

Long shaft 5HP would be more than adequate for your use. Adjustable lift mount will attach to the transom. If you prefer to use electric, a 55-70# thrust electric trolling motor will do nicely for both if you are not in a hurry to get there. Quiet, dependable and easy to use. Again, e-bay search Trolling motors. Many Minn Kotas and Motorguide electrics that are brand new sell at bargain basement prices off season or end of season. At least 36" shaft and a 42" will work better.

[Florin {VACATIONER}]

Thanks Barry for the reply. The electric seems too complicated to me since I would need two sets of batteries and would have to keep them charged at all times (sometimes power is not available). The gasoline engine option seems better for us at this point in time. What is an adjustable lift mount? Don't think I've seen one before.

Thanks

Florin

[capt jake]

Something like this, though this one is really expensive. I bought mine used for $40.

Sorry, can't get the picture to work, just click on the link.http://www.westmarine.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product/10001/-1/10001/72753/10001/784/625/6

[Florin {VACATIONER}]

OK, I've seen this one, actually I used to own one years ago... Why did I sell it???

Thanks Capt. Jake

Florin

[capt jake]

Why did I sell it???

Whew! I feel better now. I thought I was the only one to do that. :shock: :wink:

[Florin {VACATIONER}]

Yep, sometimes you just wonder... especially when at the time you've had absolutely no use for it and sold it for real dirt cheap too hahaha.

Cheers

Florin

[keithmclean]

I have a '72 evinrude 6hp on mine. It's a standard shaft with a lifting bracket. It pushes me along just fine at about 1/2 throttle and the gas usage is low. I use about 3 gallons a year with that motor. I also have an old Seagull 5hp long shaft that I use sometimes. It looks good on the boat but it uses a lot of gas and makes a lot of noise. The long shaft isn't really necessary on these boats with the lift bracket. I would stay away from electrics unless you have lots of batteries and don't need to get back in from a long way against the wind or tides.

Keith