Hi Bill, We're using a long shaft Honda 2 HP on our M15. We've used both long and regular shaft Honda 2 HP's and have had better results with the long shaft. We're using a West Marion adjustable bracket. I don't know if a 2 HP will be strong enough for an M17 in heavy winds. sal M15 - 1986 - #361 M23 - #2 - being built In a message dated 3/17/2010 7:49:33 P.M. Mountain Daylight Time, billwick@gmail.com writes: I am having some lifting problems and am thinking of going from a 5HP to a 2HP Honda outboard. I believe some M17 owners are using Honda 2HP on their boats. If so are you using the long or short shaft version? I have the factory installed adjustable outboard bracket. Thanks, Bill M17 #622 "Makin' Time" _______________________________________________ http://mailman.xmission.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/montgomery_boats Remember, there is no privacy on the Internet!