Choosing the right kicker

Rain · Posted: Wed Nov 11, 2015 10:55 pm Post subject: How do you use it?

Is it for trolling, "get back" or both? How fast will it move the boat?

thataway · Posted: Wed Nov 11, 2015 11:07 pm Post subject:

Rain, I have a slightly different philosophy, I use the dinghy motor (3.5 hp Merc 2 stroke--30 lbs) as the Kicker--it will run the boat at 3.5 to 4 knots in calm water--and you can steer the boat with it in almost any weather, as long as you are going across or down waves--it is just to get us to a safe place--may not always "get home". We carry independent fuel, since fuel is often the item which causes engine failure. I have pushed a 62 foot, 65,000 lb boat 2.5 knots with a 4.5 hp on a dinghy--it gave us steerage, and kept us safe, until we resolved the main engine issue. Even the Torpedo will push the C Dory at 3 knots.

Rain · Posted: Wed Nov 11, 2015 11:16 pm Post subject: Works for me

I like that philosophy.

That thinking may steer me toward a 6HP.

Sunbeam · Posted: Wed Nov 11, 2015 11:50 pm Post subject:

I basically do the same as Thataway. It's a "get to safe anchorage and/or putter home when conditions are good" engine. Separate fuel supply (although I can also clip it onto the main tanks if it wasn't a fuel problem). A slightly larger motor that Thataway's (simply because that's what presented itself when the time came - and plus I don't use it on a dinghy). (It's a 5hp 2-stroke).

The Honda 8D I had was deluxe and really nice - smooth as glass when running; but I just didn't need the weight for a number of reasons (both on and off the boat). The 5hp is a single cylinder, so doesn't purr like the Honda did; but then if my main goes out, I don't think I'm going to be too fussy!

Different use case, I'd likely choose differently.