On Sun, 10 Apr 2005 04:16:28 -0700, "JJ" (ziemba) wrote:
I am new to boating and am trying to add a small 6 hp outboard to my fishing
boat for trolling. Can I simply move my existing 30hp over 6 inches to make
room on the transome ? or is it crutial that this main motor be centered ?

Depends on the boat and configuration of its bottom, but I would bet
you could get away with it no problem. Especially just six inches.

Many commercial oystermen and shrimpers in my area offset the
outboards on their skiffs. And literally tens of thousands of
auxilliary sailboats mount their outboards on one side or the other.
Point being, it can be done and it's commonly done. Just depends on
your particular boat's bottom.

If you have any sort of strakes and/or keel, I'd give it a try. If it
works,and it probably will, you'll have a boat with less list than
otherwise. One BIG caveat.... make absolutely sure the two props will
always remain clear of each other.

Rick