Hello,
I will be converting a Carolina Dory Skiff from a small motor well to a
transom mount /with splash well for a 20 " shaft 30 HP 4 stroke. I would
like to keep the cutout as small as possible because the transom is narrow.

Is it going to be better to just buy the motor and make sure everything fits
by building around it or will some source have these dimensions? My
browser won't let me send the question to the Tohatsu or Nissan web site;
dealer will be next place I ask. Will this be easier to do with the motor
on hand or do the outboard manuf. have these numbers ?

The engine may wind up being whatever manuf. is most helpful with this
changeover.

Thanks,
Richard

Richard,
Go to your library and pick up a copy of Dave Gerr's "The Nature of Boats". It
has a useful section on just that topic, with rough dimensions for various
powers of outboard.
But... If you want the truly smallest well, and cutout, then buy the engine
first.

Steve