My brother-in-law gave me a 40HP Outboard Tiller.

It looks like a Evinrude, but it's hard to tell because it's been painted green.

I want a 14' or 16' welded Jon Boat.

There's a local company that I've been getting quotes from.

Their boats are nice, and I wouldn't have to drive far to pick one up.

 

http://www.xtremeindustries.com/

 

I got a quote on a 1448 and told the company that I would be mounting the 40HP Tiller on it.

Here's what they had to say:

 

"Thanks for the compliments on the welding - we do strive to have the best welded boat on the market.  Below is the pricing on the basic River Skiff 1448 T with a single floor.  We don't drill any holes in the transom unless we're mounting a motor on the lot, holes are universal on most new, larger motors (small outboards are usually different).  Also, It won't rate 40HP on the tag, just so you know."

 

I'm confused, because they list a 1448 with a 40HP Stick Steer on their site.

I guess the Tiller is heavier?

Would it be safe to mount that motor on the boat, or do I need to step up to a 16'?

Is it illegal to go over the rating on the tag?

 

Their 1642 might be in my budget.

I'd rather have a 1648, but it's probably more than I can afford.

 

 

 

*UPDATE*

 

Just got a reply back from the company:

 

"HP ratings are based on 5 factors according to US Coast Guard formula.  Those 5 factors are:

 

- Type of Hull (Flat, V, etc)
- Type of Seering (Remote, Tiller)

- Height of Transom

- Length

- Width

 

The SS Version is a remote steering version, which rates much higher via USCG formulas.  The tiller drive option reduces ratings significantly.  Even a 1648 T will not rate 40HP, unless it were a V-bottom.  

 

Is it illegal?  According to the USCG, overpowering the vessel would result in fines/tickets.  We do not rig or mount outboards on hulls that are over the HP rating limits.  Plenty of individuals DO this at their discretion and thus would accept any responsibility for their over-powering."

 

So, what do you guys think?

 

 

I don't think its illegal to mount it on the boat.  However, if you plan on insuring the boat they will have an issue with it.

Better to be safe than sorry.

Yeah, I think I'm just going to get a boat and trailer for now.

I can find a reasonably priced used motor later.

Others here are more knowledgable than me regarding this topic.

 

But I would say do not put a motor on a boat that exceeds the rating of that boat.

Regardless the laws, the warrantee and anything else, any 1448 jon would be very dangerous with a 40hp tiller. The motors weight (140 pounds or so) and the operator all sitting in the very back will make one foul handling boat with just you in it. I have a 1436 I put a 25 Merc on sometimes and turns can still be a bit scary

A number of states have sever penalties for over powering a boat. If operated in coastal water, the Coast Guard will fine you for an over powered hull and insurance companies will not usually insure an over powered hull and you will find a number lakes owned by power companies etc, that do not allow over powered hulls, many will actually have hp limits.

So, before you consider over powering one, do your homework on the laws for your area and where you plan to use it.

I have a 16' x 48" Alweld mod-v, welded in floor & sides, with a Merc 40 hp 2 stroke, jack plate, & power trim.

The 16' x 48" will actual run faster & smoother than the 14' x 44".

I would not do it.  Mainly because every time I would take the boat out on a local lake I would be afraid of getting stopped by DNR and getting a ticket.  I don't need the added anxiety.  Peace of mind is a precious thing. 

That motor your brother gave you should have a vin on it somewhere, that vin will tell you exactly what motor you have.