New boat which Outboard

[Wishn]

Tom
We met last year at the Seattle boat show talking outboard motors for a sled. I very much appreciated your time and input.

I have finally decided what I am building. It is going to be a 21'x84" Riverwild with a center console mounted forward so I can run it similar to an open sled or have a top similar to a windshield boat.

My dilemma now is power. I will run both a pump for the Cowlitz and a prop for Lake Mayfield, Riffe lake and the Columbia. 175 or 200 Etec is the decision right now. I am leaning toward the 200 because I would like some reserve and there are days when I just want to put the boat on the Lake for a ride with the feeling of speed and power. I have thought 200 HO but I hate to have another 100# on the transom.

I would appreciate your opinion.

ps Love the radio show
Great looking new Weldcraft boat. I noticed you did not skimp on the power.

Wishn

[Nelly]

Hey there W,
Welcome to our happy little group of boat nuts!
I would definitely opt for the big block Evinrude E Tec 200 HO and here's why:

-There's no replacement for displacement. The 200HO will definitely out perform the 175 and you won't have to use 100% of the horsepower which will result in a longer engine life.

-With a boat of the size you're describing, I think the extra weight of the larger engine will hardly be an issue,. Especially considering the center console configuration which places more weight amidships.

-Finally, one of the reasons to get an Evinrude E Tec is the low maintenance. Swapping the lower unit from prop to pump is a pain. If you opt for the larger 200 HO you'll probably not need any more power for your new ride!

Good luck and see you at the Seattle Boat Show!

[Wishn]

Tom
Hope you had a good show season. I appreciate your boat info.
My new boat construction has started. I decided on a 200HO in the new Graphite color.
Any input on the Evinrude auxiliary charging cable set up?
Your Inverter system is very interesting.
Boat will also have a Lowrance 9 touch.
Thanks on any tips.