Jim wrote:

The Honda is a fine engine, stick with the shaft length that's needed.
More isn't better. A six horse is a lot of power. Try a four before
you buy.

Yes I agree about engine size. We don't need the 15hp that came with
the boat. Getting a motor smaller than a 9.9 is not possible because I
don't think I can get an external starter/throttle/shift kit with
anything smaller than a 9.9. Currently I have the pull starter rigged
into the cockpit from the well which suits me fine, but the Admiral, who
is shorter than me has great difficulty reaching into the lazarette from
the cockpit to get at the choke. In rough conditions, this is not only
inconvenient but unsafe as well.