Engine for Zodiac FC470

[gc_cracker]

Hey everyone, 1st Time posting!

I have just picked up an ex SAS FC470 and I'm hunting for an engine.

I can secure a great deal on a 30HP 2 stroke Mercury and then a bug step up in price to 40 or 50HP in either manual or electric.

Can anyone offer any advice, 1st of all whether a 30HP would power this boat with 3-4 adults sufficiently or if I need to go up in size?

Apart from the obvious arm workout, is there any other pros/cons for manual or electric with power trim etc.

Thanks,

Phil

[whisper]

Nice one! You've just become a Ribnet legend

Tohatsu 50 zapcat engine would be worth looking onto.

Got any pics

[gc_cracker]

Haha thanks Whisper.

In sure there will be lots of posts to follow.

Photos attached

[office888]

I've got a 1971 Mercury 500SS (50 hp) on mine.

The important part is that you want to keep the weight down as much as possible. Also, BUY A TRANSOM SAVER AND KEEP THE TUBES INFLATED.

It puts a ton of stress on the transom-tube joints if the tubes are allowed to deflate while an outboard is mounted.

PS : You seem to be missing a floor.

[gc_cracker]

Thanks for that.

I'll look into the transom saver.

There was no floor available so I'm thinking about making one out of marine ply and marine carpet.

The engine is my biggest issue as I have a great deal available on a 30, an ok deal on a 50 and not so good a deal on a 40! All 2 stroke. The 30 is manual and the rest are electric. I just don't know if a 30 will be enough.

[Squid Boat]

Welcome mate, a good crowd here.
I would stay away from the 30hp with 4 adults and gear unless your just Pub crawling the harbor or doing inland waters.

40 would do it nicely, I have a 50merc on a similar boat with a 3/4 ply hard deck in the works.

Cheers, Squid

[gc_cracker]

That's exactly the advice I was looking for squid boat so thanks.

I'd love to see your progress and any tips/tricks you come across with the floor.

Thanks,

Phil