Keith, I agree with Dave. I have an M-15 which I use a 3.5 HP Mercury. It’s a bit of overkill but I bought it for the reverse. It’s so much easier to adjust the motor slightly so it doesn’t push the boat off center. Basically, I adjust the motor so the boat is heading in a straight line without using the rudder. Then when I steer with the rudder, I’m not constantly fighting the boats need to pull left/right due to the motor being off center. The other advantage is not damaging the rudder from the prop. My rudder came pre-damaged for this very reason by the PO I hope this helps. ~Skip M-15 #201 1982 Wild Guppy M-5’8”. #28. 1972 Yet to be named.
On Jun 27, 2021, at 12:55 PM, Dave Scobie <scoobscobie@gmail.com> wrote:
The reason people don't like the cutout is: can't use motor to steer (easily), and many outboards do not fit.
IMO use the rudder to steer ... just like boats with inboards do.
A Suzuki 4/6 HP long (20") will fit. Do a www-search for 'Larry Yale Montgomery 17 Corn Dog's and you will see pictures of his boat using a Suzuki in the cutout.
:: Dave Scobie :: M6'8" #650 :: SV SWALLOW - sv-swallow.com :: former owner M17 #375 SWEET PEA - m17-375.com :: former owner M15 #288 SCRED - m15namedscred.wordpress.com <<-- new site!
On Sun, Jun 27, 2021, 9:26 AM Cap Keith <orionkeith@msn.com> wrote:
Hello all,
Just a quick question… I own a M17, 1980 model. Purchased with an attached, adjustable motor mount thru-bolted where the cut out for an outboard. Question: Why not use the existing, cut-out for say, a 4-5hp motor? (Wanting to re-power).
Keith K Ginger Snap
Get Outlook for iOS<https://aka.ms/o0ukef>