Dingy motor

journey on · Posted: Tue Sep 22, 2009 10:37 pm Post subject:

The Seagull was an English outboard motor. They were sort of like English motorcycles of the 50s, did the job but when modern designs came in they went out of business. Actually Edward Turner, who ran Triumph M/C prior to going down the tubes, then went over to Seagull and put that business to rest.

I heard that it was designed for the Normandy invasion, intended to be a throwaway to get to the beach. This summer I met a sailor who had a Seagull. Met him again a couple of weeks later, and he'd sailed upwind from Clayquot Sound to Nootka Sound because his motor died. Asked where he got spare parts, and the only answer was "I have a spare one at home."

I think a Seagull would teach you to appreciate modern outboards. They were certainly eccentric, and I leave the reliability to others.

Boris

kennharriet · Posted: Tue Sep 22, 2009 10:39 pm Post subject:

Looking at the Suzuki 2.5 hp specs, I think it will do nicely. Thanks again all for the suggestions.

Sea Wolf · Posted: Wed Sep 23, 2009 12:27 am Post subject:

Bob-

I don't think the older 2 cycle engines were better, just lighter, and with a small inflatable dinghy to rig in the water, or for a square ended canoe, I just like the lighter weight.

Where the weight is not an issue, the four strokes are definitely better, much like they are in the larger outboards, though it's not so dramatically different, since the little guys don't have Electronic Fuel Injection and start and run like modern cars, which the big 4 strokes do, as you well know.

Cheers!

Joe. Teeth

lloyds · Posted: Wed Sep 23, 2009 11:10 am Post subject:

I once had a 4 hp evinrude 2-cycle. It had to be a 70's model. It had f-n-r, weighed next to nothing, purred like a kitten and was water cooled. The really big plus was it was 2-cylinder so no vibration. I was in an outboard shop here in salem recently and they had a couple of them. They were only like $250. Seems like a lot for an old motor but they were sweet. I could tolerate carrying some mix for the quietness and smoothness I could get. If you could get that in a new 4-stroke I would probably go there. I love my little honda 2hp but it shakes like crazy. But it starts as easy as an electric blender and is only 29 pounds so I tolerate it. I don't even mind not having gears.