S2 7.9 Meter Class Association

We are looking for a new outboard motor for our S 2 - 7.9. we currently have a Suzuki 8 horse power DT 8. The power is not enough. What recommendations do you have for our new outboard motor?

I have a Yamaha 8hp works great.

we use a 5h nissan.

I'm surprised that 8 hp isn't enough; are you motoring in particularly difficult conditions? I wonder if the problem might be the propellor (size/pitch), shaft length, motor mount position, or some combination of those factors. But then, what do I know -- my boat's an inboard.

Jim Kloss
s/v Ambivalence
S2 7.9 #8

We have a Honda 9.9, 4 stroke and are very happy with it's performance

DR,

What are your thoughts on the Nissan 5hp ? - Does it have enough power ??? I was thinking of going to a 6hp for a 4 stroke, but a 5 has crossed my mind.

Rudeman,
You might as well get the 6hp Nissan 4stroke, because it weighs the exact same as the 5hp. The weight of the 4strokes increase quite a bit when you go above 6hp, to almost 85 lbs., which is more than we wanted for easy removal for racing. The 6hp Nissan (~50lbs) has plenty of power for our boat. We haven't noticed any reduction from our old 8hp 2stroke, but the 4 stroke has been much more dependable and sips gas.

Tom Clark, Wavelength #525

Tom,
I'd like to know more about the Nissan 6hp Four stroke, how fast can it push a 7.9, especially in choppy windy, conditions? I'm looking to replace an ancient (original equipment?) Johnson 9.9, that weighs a ton. But I'm concerned that a 6 may not be enough to push up the St. Clair River into Lake Huron. Current under the Bluewater Bridge can reach 5 knots with a north wind, factor in the drag on the rig, and the occasionally dirty bottom, and well,you get the idea.
Also, how is it after you've removed it and laid it down below, does it leak any oil like some four stroke motors will?

Thanks,
BarryE
#11

Good points, thanks Tom.

Thus far I have looked at the Honda 5hp - I think around 55 lbs for the long shaft model and was thinking about looking at a Nissan. I currently have a new Yamaha 4hp 4 stroke for the fishing boat, but not quite up to 7.9 standards.

Barry, from my expeirence most every 4 stroke, provided you lay it down on the proper side, generally will not leak - it's when you lay it on the wrong side you get the problems.

I think I will look at the Nissan.

Rudy

#213

We are very happy with our Nissan 5hp. It has started really well each season (after you remember to open the gas valve!) It has survived a dunking and started up right away after drying out. Usual winterization of a 2-cycle applies and a new sparkplug everyother (or third) year is routine for us.

I use a 1979 7.5 hp Mercury 2 stroke, old but does the job. At 3/4 throttle it pushes Odyssey at a comfortable 6 kt's.

Rudeman - we use the 5h nissan on Lake Michigan. This will be the 3rd season with it and I have no complaints. Starts right up, uses minimal gas, easy to stow etc. We used the Nissan to steer the boat back in last year after the rudder snapped off ( 5-6 waves - for 2 miles- only did a couple 360's). Usually cruise between 4-5 knts depending how close it is till pub closin' time. I did lower the "throw" on the motor mount to keep it in the water better when the waves are up.
dr

Barry,
I've motored up the St. Clair River in a 7.9 going to the Sarnia Yacht Club, and I'm going to recommend twin 150 horse outboards. You need twins just in case one cuts out. No seriously, our 6hp Nissan 4-stroke "seems" just as powerful as our old 8hp, but we barely made it through that particular stretch with an 8. I don't think we have ever gone much over 5-6 mph with either. I would stick with local knowledge on this question. What are other people there using? You're right, that is no place to be underpowered or have barely enough. Sure is beautiful sailing once you're into Lake Huron, though.
We always lay it on the correct side and it has never leaked oil. I should also mention how nice and quiet the 4-stroke is. You can actually carry on a normal conversation while motoring.

Tom Clark
Wavelength #525