Engine Size

[esox]

I have finished building the FL 14. it is time to put an engine on it in time for the Easter Holidays. The plans state up to 7.5 HP. The price of a new engine that size is too much so I can either buy second hand or buy a smaller new 5 HP. As I know nothing about engines I would rather go for the new option. Is 5Hp going to be enough or will it be under powered.

[ross61]

5HP is more than enough. This is a non-planing hull design. I think 2HP would probably be enough.

That being said, I have an old Elgin 2 1/2 HP and a Johnson 5 1/2 HP for my FL14. Waiting for spring to launch. I really like the old Elgin and will probably use it, but I will try both and post results. Of course the larger Johnson is nice too, and it has a neutral and reverse gear.

Good Luck,

Ross

[tobolamr]

You can also check http://www.smalloutboards.com and http://www.boatmotors.com for used outboards.

[Lon]

With a 5 HP, 37 lb engine plus 225 lb of me and gear I believe my FL-14 was slightly overpowered and 3 HP would have been optimum.