[Public-List] Any comments on mounting an outboard?

[John Riley]

Dennis K. Biby wrote:
> Ahoy,
>
> I know the theoretical pros and cons but I'm interested in hearing from
> someone who powers their A-30 with a transom mounted long-shaft
> outboard.
>
> Yes, I know that it detracts from the beautiful lines of the Alberg 30.
>
> Dennis
>
>
>   

Hi Dennis,

Our boat, #521, has a transom mounted outboard; it's a 8 HP Johnson 
"Sailmaster" Ultra Long Shaft (25 inches).

Couple of Cons from my experience with this setup:

(1) Hard to reach engine controls while the engine is down; remote 
controls here would likely help.

(2) Don't expect an outboard to 'stop' your boat by going into reverse 
like you can with a large prop inboard.  It's 9000 lb of boat (dry) - 
best bet is to approach docks and such as if you don't even HAVE a 
reverse gear on the engine.  I try to never rely on reverse for stopping 
the boat in tight quarters.

(3) Backing is atrocious anyway.  If I did not have the outboard set up 
to turn (some folks lock them, which may be required with the above 
mentioned remote throttle/shifter), I'd have no control in reverse...not 
that I have a lot now.

(4) In anything over about 4 ft in sea state, the engine ventilates. 

(5) I'm not pleased with the fuel economy; this is a lot of boat to push 
with a smallish outboard.  Of course, I don't run at full throttle.  
Even with only 8 HP, anything over about 2/3 or 3/4 throttle, and the 
stern squat (and subsequent reduction in speed gain to rpm ratio) is 
noticeable.  I can run 5 ish knots at between 1/2 and 3/4 throttle.  At 
this throttle setting, I've motored into 25 kts but only made about 3 
kts or so over ground.

I'll get REAMED for this I'm sure, but I have thought of cutting a well 
in the laz and putting the ob there.  This will help with issues (1) and 
(4).

Finally, it sure IS ugly.

John
s/v Gaelic Sea
#521

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