Repowering

[StrayCat]

I currently own a BassCat Sabre with a 175 Mariner. It's an older model('91), but still runs great. However, if and when the Mariner does wear out, I've thought about repowering with a 200 h.p. The Sabre (18 footer), is only rated for a 175 though. I'm not sure what the weight difference is between a 175 and 200 Merc. I was just wondering if any of you guys have ever repowered a boat over the maximum recommended horsepower, or is it too dangerous? Technically, would repowering with a 200 be any different from say having a 175 horse motor worked to a 200?
Thanks for any input.
Kenny.

[vector mike]

The 175 and the 200 weigh the same. As far as overpowering your boat, some people do it. It's mostly for insurance reasons to not do it. Mine is rated for 135 and I think it is a little overpowered. Although it only says 2.4 HP on the cowl. :rolleyes:

[StrayCat]

Thanks Mike. I really couldn't see a down side to adding an extra 25 horses. I'm not really looking for more top end, but I figure an extra 25 horses would really wake up the hole shot and mid-range punch. By the way, that's a sharp looking boat you've got. Looks like a blast to drive.
Kenny

[vector mike]

...By the way, that's a sharp looking boat you've got. Looks like a blast to drive.
Kenny

Yeah, it's alot of fun and a handfull to drive.


The extra 25HP will be just fine as long as the insurance company doesn't get wind of it.

[hsbob]

coast guard rating are +- 15%. if your insurance agent bauk tell him thet you may get by.

[neveredge]

coast guard rating are +- 15%. if your insurance agent bauk tell him thet you may get by.


Just curious, where did you get that info? I have never heard that before. I do know that the manufacturers are allowed 10% when rating a motor but I have never heard that the Coast Guard was lenient like that.