Avon 2.8m air could I put 8hp on it?

SpearRib · 26 October 2013, 22:22

We are thinking about getting an avon air floor, but its only rated to 6hp. The 8hp is the same weight as our 6 (25kg). Obviously it would be at our own discretion. I think in some countries it voids insurance.

frankc · 27 October 2013, 11:46

It is up to you whether or not you exceed the rating. I would use good judgement as to when I used full power and watch for any possible damage to the attachment members of the transom. You do not have a hard floor to keep the transom from twisting.

Glow · 27 October 2013, 13:45

My old boat was a 2.9m air deck, it was rated to 10hp and felt fast at top speed. Try it, just go easy until you find the limits.

JH&H · 27 October 2013, 20:16

My honwave is a 2.8 rated to 8hp and I have a 15hp 2 stroke on it - I'm sure there are several good reasons why it's rated to 8hp but as far as I'm concerned the engine is pushing the transom that pushes the boat body, the most resistance and strain is getting it up on the plain, the rated hp engine could get it on the plain so other than weight which my one is under the rated kg the only danger of over power is the design speed.

Like everyone says it's a case of being careful, I love my 2.8 with 15hp and it is very quick but I'm sure it could be dangerous if I was reckless with the throttle.

JH&H · 27 October 2013, 20:16

Forgot to mention my honwave is an air deck

SpearRib · 27 October 2013, 21:31

i just know the avon wont plane with 2 with 6hp but will with our 8hp.

we are looking to sell our zodiac hard floor because the avon is hypalon, its not much more than we will sell the zodiac for.

Peter Bryson · 05 November 2013, 15:00

The question you need to ask yourself is very simple - are you still insured?
The boat will almost certainly take an 8hp- however if you have accident the likelihood is that your insurance will be immediately invalidated because you have exceeded the recommendations on the builders plate

Peter

frankc · 05 November 2013, 16:02

Why don't you look for another boat? The compressive strength of the floor plays a part in that it restricts the bottom of the transom from being forced toward the bow as power is increased, and an air floor may not be up to the task. This creates stress on the attachment points of the transom.

I am sure the manufacturer has a fudge factor built into the strength calculations which may allow more power, but why take the chance of ruining a perfectly good boat?

HUMBER P4VWL · 05 November 2013, 17:44

Quote:

Originally Posted by Peter Bryson

The question you need to ask yourself is very simple - are you still insured? Peter

...but, how many people have insurance if all they are using is a dinghy!!! I doubt many with an old air deck and old sub 10hp engine.

SpearRib · 06 November 2013, 02:22

hi guys, gave up on the avon idea as we now looking for a bigger boat. i dont know many folks who have insurance other than for if it gets stolen. i presume in the UK or US there must be some kind of public liability insurance as well?