Choosing an Outboard Motor

When you begin to shop around for an outboard motor, you might be surprised at how many options there are. With so many models to choose from, how do you determine which outboard motor is right for you? This guide from Roger’s Performance Marine can help you make an informed decision! Keep reading to discover the most important factors to consider when buying an outboard motor.

Looking for more expert advice? Feel free to consult the qualified staff at Roger’s Performance Marine. You can find us in Centerville and Hurricane, UT.

How Much Horsepower?

You might be tempted to choose the highest horsepower option available, but remember to account for the size of your boat! An overpowered vessel is going to be unstable and unsafe. What’s more, you might be in violation of federal law! On the other hand, if you underpower your boat, this can cause the motor to deteriorate quickly.

Fortunately, there is a simple way to determine exactly how much horsepower you need. Each boat comes with an NMMA Certification Plate that specifies the maximum horsepower your boat can safely handle. The general rule of thumb is based on weight: your boat should have between 25 and 40 pounds of weight for each horsepower.

Long Shaft or Short Shaft?

Short shafts range from 14 to 17 inches in length, while long shafts range from 18 to 22 inches. The shaft length of your outboard motor should correspond to your boat’s transom height. The transom is the section of the hull where the outboard motor is mounted. To determine the transom height, measure from the top-center section where the motor is attached, to the bottom center of the hull. Most modern boats require long shaft motors.

Tiller Handle or Steering Wheel?

You will also need to decide whether you want an outboard motor with a tiller handle or a steering wheel. A steering wheel offers a more familiar experience to most boaters, while a tiller handle provides more control. Tiller handles are popular on fishing boats thanks to their precision. If your boating pursuits do not require that level of maneuverability, you might prefer the ease of a steering wheel.

Manual or Electric Start?

Cheaper outboard motors usually feature a manual pull start mechanism. In general, the more powerful the motor, the harder it will be to pull that cord. If you want a fast and easy start, you should choose the electric start option. This will cost you a little more, but it can pay off in the long run – with an electric start, you can easily fire up the motor and make evasive maneuvers when your boat starts drifting toward obstacles.

We hope you found this information helpful! Ready to put your knowledge to good use? Come shop our selection of outboard motors at Roger’s Performance Marine. We have locations near Salt Lake City and St. George, UT.