USCG Capacity plate and Michigan

[Kartracer]

From the searching I have done, I understand that the capacity plate is only a recommendation by the USCG, and is not (under normal circumstance) means for a ticket from the Coast Guard. Now I do see that some states may have their own take on that. I haven't been able to find any Michigan laws that oppose the Coast Guard's regulations or back them up. All I have been able to find is where it is stated that the local law enforcement have the right to perform safety checks for the Coast Guard.

Basically I am wanting to put a slightly larger than recommended motor on a boat that seems to be commonly overpowered and I am pretty sure can handle it, and would like to know what Michigan's take would be on that. Insurance is not an issue, and I understand the implications that could result in the case of an accident.

Any Michigan people looked this up or had issues with this?

[drag120]

I have race boats and I don't have capacity plates on any of them. I was told a number of years ago the CG can give citations for an over powered vessel. When I was "inspected" by the DNR 2 years ago he wanted to see the capacity plate and I said race boats don't have them then he wanted the hull identification number. Luckily mine do have that on them. The Sheriff and DNR will look at the plate and make determinations from that (over powered or over loaded). The DNR officers can be ruthless and use whatever you say against you also. Always remember that your boat only goes 55 mph while on Michigan waterways, no faster, period!! Different motor stickers or unlabeled motors work good too. Tom

[afr]

i dont know what would or could happen
i never been called on it before but i always over power
you get better fuel mileage at cursing speed i say its far easier on the motor etc
but i would just pull the plate off

[Stitch King]

Had a overpowered Glastron GT150 years ago. Put 90 HP stickers on it and the sheriff's left me alone.

Like Tom said it's the DNR guys and the Coasties you have to watch out for.

[pyro]

Kartracer, I saw your boat at Wamplers Lake a few years ago on one of the MHB days.

The 35 HP ain't cutting it?

[tcgravy]

In Michigan I have had DNR/Sheriffs check the CG plate, but mostly for people capacity. I would say either remove the plate or unmark/remark your motor and you'll be fine - just if you do that, make sure you do have your registration with you on the boat to help avoid any other headaches and help from pissing of the sheriffs even more (they usually seem plenty pissed off on their own when they're in ticket writing mood)

[Kartracer]

Kartracer, I saw your boat at Wamplers Lake a few years ago on one of the MHB days.

The 35 HP ain't cutting it?

Nice. I am guessing it was at least three or four years ago?

We will see after I get a jackplate on it. The biggest problem with the 35 HP I have of it is it's lack of power trim.

I have considered a rebadge, but was just curious if it was even necessary.

[Scott in MN]

I have yet to be asked where my capacity plate is but they do want to know about the 2.5 horsepower motor under the big cowl....

[Kartracer]

I have yet to be asked where my capacity plate is but they do want to know about the 2.5 horsepower motor under the big cowl....

Dry storage compartment? :thumbsup:

[mirage243]

I have yet to be asked where my capacity plate is but they do want to know about the 2.5 horsepower motor under the big cowl....

I always tell 'em it's a 2.5 150 horse, I even have the boat registered that way.

[lckytrbl]

im originally a michigan native,i learned years ago that it is not necessary to display a capacity designation.in the event of an accident where life or property is lost,whilst over powered vessel was operated by registered owner,registered owner will be held responsible.good luck finding legal counsel in these matters,as the offender usually loses.the moral is,be careful.operate away from other lives and property while achieving high speeds.

[Scott in MN]

in the event of an accident where life or property is lost,whilst over powered vessel was operated by registered owner,registered owner will be held responsible.good luck finding legal counsel in these matters,as the offender usually loses.the moral is,be careful.operate away from other lives and property while achieving high speeds.


Very true, I would say that the offending party would lose regardless if the boat was overpowered or not.