On Thu, 12 Feb 2004 22:20:52 -0800, engsol
wrote:

Thanks....you've given me a number of considerations that hadn't occured
to me....fuel storage...theft...etc.
On the other hand, some things aren't a factor, such as a windvane.
Thanks again.
Norm

My pleasure. I can't answer my own question as to why boats over 27'
rarely, if ever, feature an outboard, but as I've lost significant
sailing time in the last few years due to mishaps with my inboard
engine, it certainly has occurred to me. In my case, with a pinched
reverse transom IOR-style stern, an outboard and its pivoting mount
would adversely affect its looks, and I like the boat's looks...

Oh, here's another downside: a lot of weight in the stern can affect
the balance of the boat and lead to unnecessary or undesirable
"hobbyhorsing" in certain sea conditions. To a degree, this is offset
by a high ballast ratio which on some older racer-cruisers is 40-50%,
but other models would "feel" 100-120 lbs. off the stern more than
others, just as they would "feel" 200 feet of chain and a 66 lb. Bruce
anchor at the bow.

That's why you'd want to strike a balance between OB power and getting
it off the stern: the trim settings of an OB can mitigate somewhat its
weight, but when it's off and stowed out of the water, it's like
having a woman hanging off the stern rail.

Which may appeal...I dunno...G

R.