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I have a project 18 guardian and have the chance to get a new in crate mercury optimal 115 for pretty cheap. Boat will be used in the Pacific Ocean for fishing so top speed not an issue. Lots of swell here and will fish with one other or two kids. The low is a 90 and high 150. My 22 guardian has a 225
And has too much power for the ocean as far as top speed goes. It goes 40+ in the flat water which is a little scary.
Anyway if anybody has experience with the 115 on an 18 let me know
Thanks
There have been a dozen or so owners who chose a 115hp.
Engine rigging and prop selection are key.
The big question is load.
What are your expectations with weight of fishing persons, baitwell, hardware.
What are your local waters?
If you plan to have several hundred pounds of people and a baitwell and gear, a 115hp it will not be enough displacement/torque to get up the backside of those large swells you get off San Fran or Bodega Bay etc..
I have a 115 on an 18 outrage and it is very adequate and tops out around 40+. not sure how much heavier it is with a Guardian but with 2 people and possibly 2 kids, it will be plenty.
