Reserve engine short shaft or long?

[martin33100]

Hi, I am thinking of getting something like a 4hp reserve for my Avon 560 Rib, if I use a reserve bracket should I go for a long or short shaft? or I guess you would put the bracket
on to suit

[Observer]

If it's a fixed bracket, you'll probably need long shaft (if the main engine is long) because it will be mounted at the same height as the main engine. If you fit a lifting bracket, you will probably get away with a short. That also has the advantage it will be higher out of the water (at full up tilt) when not being used.

[m chappelow]

dont forget you are not going to get on the plane so when in use it will be probely at slow displacement speeds ,in choppy or lumpy waves the prop might be airborne causing you to loose power at times if using a short shaft and its not mounted low enough; we once had to assist a guy back in with an aux short shaft engine mounted on a rib transom , there was plenty of power but the prop kept popping up in the waves which made a for a slow return back to port ,,it was ok around the harbour in the flat water but when he needed it it was 3steps forward 2 steps back ,