Nice, huh? One day I'd like to try a 2 hp on Busca, just to see how good/bad it would be. Sure would be nice to lug 27# to and from the bed of the p/u instead of 68# (or however much the 5 hp weighs). Tod -----Original Message----- From: montgomery_boats-bounces+htmills=bright.net@mailman.xmission.com [mailto:montgomery_boats-bounces+htmills=bright.net@mailman.xmission.com ] On Behalf Of Steve Shenkel Sent: Wednesday, April 12, 2006 11:37 PM To: 'For and about Montgomery Sailboats' Subject: M_Boats: Boat Balance-Three changes made a difference After a month away from sailing, I had an opportunity to experience the Montgomery, perhaps as it was intended. During the month off, I did three things that contributed to better boat balance: 1. I wanted to replace the Honda 7.5 with a lighter Johnson 2 stroke 4.5 HP engine that also came with the boat. This may seem counter culture in these days of quieter, greener, and more fuel efficient 4 strokes, but the fact of the matter was that the Honda was just a beast on the back of the M17. The much lighter Johnson motor worked when I bought the boat, but it had sat for 8 years, so as a matter of course I rebuilt the water pump and carburetor. Matter of fact, the first carburetor I have rebuilt,,,well, in a long time. And as I remember it; there were parts left over in the kit; and you felt good about it. At any rate, the Johnson motor has an internal tank which also eliminated the need to keep a gas tank in the back of the cockpit-saving some more weight. 2. Secondly, the month was highlighted by refurbishing the keel. Previously the keel was stuck and I never had the opportunity to experience the boat sailing with the board down. 3. Finally, the last thing was to put some water (about 2.5 gallons) in the new 5 gallon fresh water tank that I placed under the "vee" berth. These three things really made a difference in the balance of the boat. It never was bad before, but now it is just that much better. ----Probably something you all knew already! Steve Shenkel <>< _/) M17 # 263 Glendale, AZ _______________________________________________ http://mailman.xmission.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/montgomery_boats