Too much HP

[Titan5.6]

Hi Y'all, quick question. I have a Zodiac Cadet 270 with Aluminum Floor with an 8hp 2 stroke, buddy has a 15hp 2 stroke which is same weight. Should I upgrade as current engine does not provide much speed?

[spartacus]

Welcome to the forum Titan.

Your Zodiac Cadet and 8hp are correctly rated. If you want the 15hp, my suggestion is to get a larger boat.

https://www.penninemarine.com/boat-f...le-boat-design

[Mikefule]

Bigger is not always better. 2 strokes like to rev fairly freely rather than chug. 8 hp is right for the boat. A 15 hp would be unsuitable. You wouldn't be able to use its full power safely, and it would not be at its best at speeds safe for the hull.

However, move up to a 3.2 or so and the 15 would be ideal.

Personally, if I bought a second engine for a 270, it would be a light and portable egg whisk around 3 hp. It's amazing how much a lighter engine makes transporting, setting up, launching and recovering less effort.

[beamishken]

Which 8hp is the same weight as a 15hp? Usually significantly lighter but id agree should go fine with 8hp

[Titan5.6]

I must correct myself, the 15hp is heavier than my 8hp but still within the 93 lb max engine rate rating. Coming in at 72 lbs. 1996 Evinrude specs.
Trouble is my Cadet 270 will plane with only me on board, With a single passenger it becomes a displacement hull which is fine for toddling along but not good crossing large lakes to reach the best fishing areas. I went small to maximize portability when camping during a planned trip up to the NWT. I also have a 2hp Yamaha for close in excursions.

[beamishken]

Your evinrude is quite lardy for an 8 at 32 kg we have an 8hp yam which is 27kg on a 2.8 rib and it planes 2 up but only just, your inflatable will be less hydro dynamic than the rib so I guess a bigger engine is your best bet. On the plus side a 15hp Yamaha is only 37kg so not a huge jump for you. Probably over your hp rating but you dont have to use all the extra power