Norm,
Let me start by saying that my current boat is a 4600# 26ft Lod center
board sloop. It has a 10Hp long shaft electric start on a movable mount.

I know nothing about your home water.

I never thought I would have and outboard for an auxiliary, but I do now.

The only time it gets bad is when you have to power in an inlet that has
rollers coming out. Other than that I'm usually sailing because I can't
power the much over 6.0 but if it is blowing at all I can make 6.4-5.

Bad things:
The engine is where you don't want weight.
The prop is too close to the surface and all that stuff.
It can be stolen, but a McGard bolt will make that really tough.

Good things:
New outboards are stone reliable (at least as good as an A4 - ever)
(and they can most all be started when your battery is down)
If (when)it needs attention you don't have to try to fit in the little
hole it is crammed into. You can even take it ashore and either fix it
yourself or tell someone "here - fix it, make it all better and give it
back" You even can barrow an engine if needed.
The shaft packing never drips.

Matt Colie A.Sloop "Bonne Ide'e" S2-7.9 #1
Lifelong Waterman, Licensed Mariner and Pathological Sailor


engsol wrote:

If this has been beat to death before, my apology.

I'm looking for a boat to enjoy upon retirement this May. Being poor,
I'll have to settle for an older boat, 30-32 feet. I've seen a number of boats
in my price range on my list, but have rejected the ones with an OB. But
then I got to wondering...should I do so?

The advantage of an OB is cost, doesn't take up interior room, at least
semi-reliable these days. But then I wonder about enough power in a
seaway. The area I plan to sail (San Juan Islands) is quite sheltered....
wind chop, but seldom any significant swells. A safe haven is rarely more
than 4 - 5 hours away.

So what am I missing, or haven't thought of, as regards to OB power?

Thanks,
Norm