Hi Bruce
A long shaft is definitely recommended.
In an emergency (read storm) the wave action would have your prop more above
than below the waterline.
So not thrust. FWIW
--
c ya Wim
www.cruising.ca/thousand/f-index.html


"Bruce" wrote in message
...
: I need to buy an outboard for my San Juan 21 and not quite sure about how
: big to go. I would like a 4 stroke and I am thinking that about 5 HP
would
: be a good size. Any comments about the different brands would be
: appreciated.
: Also, do I really need a "long shaft" motor. With the motor mount
currently
: on the boat, it seems to me that any motor would easily bury the prop.
:
: Regards,
: Bruce
:
: