Notice:
The advice given on this site is based upon individual or quoted experience, yours may differ.
The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.
1) I recently purchased an 85 Catalina 25. I need to purchase an outboard. What length shaft do I need, I am assuming I need a long shaft of 20 inches for a 8 HP?
2) I also purchased a new motor mount made of fiberglass with a metal support backing from Catalina Direct. There were no directions and I am confused how to install this. I'm not sure which side faces out? Thanks, Steve
Be aware that shaft length varies based on the manufacturer. In the Nissan/Tohatsu line, a long shaft is actually 23". I use mine in a lake and it works great. I've never had a problem with the prop leaving the water even in the roughest of conditions with my 210 lbs standing on the bow.
I purchased a motor mount backing plate from CD last year. The metal plate sits forward of the fiberglass plate. The top flange on the metal plate should be sticking out forward as well. Helps to prevent the motor from ever slipping off.
I think most of us will recommend what most manufacturers call the 'XL' shaft length. With a "Standard Longshaft" (20 inch), the pitching of the boat will ventilate (pull the prop out of the water) in anything but perfectly calm conditions.
[regarding the shaft length of an outboard and the installation of a motor mount from CD]<i>Originally posted by matsche</i> <br />Steve:
Thanks John for the excellent information. You answered both questions. It was interesting that I was considering purchasing the same motor you mentioned. My first impression of this club and forum gets an A+. Peace to you! Steve
If you are buying a new Honda or Yamaha motor, you want to go with the "XLS" 25" shaft. Other manufacturers (Nissan, Tohatsu, Mercury) may also offer a 25".
I used to have a 20" Honda 10 on my '79SK (#1205) and it was okay in calm water, but any kind of chop would frequently lift the prop and cavitate it. Get a 25" shaft if you can, the 20" works fine on a Catalina 22 but is not quite long enough for a Catalina 25.
If I was buying now, I'd be getting a Nissan/Tohatsu 9.9 XXL shaft (its 25 inch shaft). OnlineOutboards.com has them at a very attractive price (under $2000 last time I checked). Charlie Roberts has one on his C250 and its very quiet, reliable, lightweight, and the prop is in DEEP.
Much cheaper and lighter than the Yamaha T8A which would be my 2nd choice but $600 more and 40 lbs heavier.
Currently running a Honda 8 classic XL and it works great but does pull out in some really heavy stuff.
Notice: The advice given on this site is based upon individual or quoted experience, yours may differ. The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.