Before Posting, Please Read Our Posting Guidelines Below.
1. Use the full 4 digit year for everything you are asking your question about. Example: 1962, 1988, 2000, 2011 2. Include the correct name of your Whaler model. Example: Montauk 17, Montauk 170, Outrage 26, Outrage 260 3. Include the length when necessary. Example: 16, 17, 18, 20, 22 4. Do not post your email address anywhere on this site as it is already in your user profile.
I am considering a super sport 170. My concern is that it might be slightly underpowered for water sports. I'm 6'5", 220... Not sure 90hp is sufficient. I currently have a dauntless 200 which I like quite a bit, but need a bit shallower draft as getting to the bay behind my house requires going through a couple tight spots. Last night I had the toughest workout in 20 yrs pulling the dauntless through a sandbar.
Anyone have thoughts or experience with putting a larger than spec engine on a whaler?
The Boston Whaler Super Sport 170 was designed for a maximum outboard weight of 415 lbs.
I suggest you research the various brands of motors available with particular attention to the outboard weight in the horsepower range you want, without exceeding the 415 lbs.
It's about propeller selection. I would first try buying the same prop included with 2" less pitch and use that for skiing, tubing and wake boarders .
For repowering:
While there are several engine choices under that weight limit, there is a sizable cost involved.Boston Whaler sells all models with Mercury motors, no exceptions. It is illegal to sell a new boat overpowered.
You will need to find a separate outfit willing to buy the "used but not used" motor, derig and install a different engine.
I would estimate swapping to a 115 hp motor DFI or 4 stroke will cost you around $5K when all done.
Modern Boston Whaler's have a high weight to horsepower ratio. Models prior to ~ 2000 are much lighter.
One example:
2003 - current Montauk, 1400 lbs, max hp of 90.
2002 and prior Montauk, 900 lbs, max hp of 100.
