New Engine Maybe

IdahoMark

Toying with the idea of upsizing my engine on my 2003 198 REF.  Has a Yamaha 150 VMAX, but want to move to the 200HP.  My friend, a Mech Eng, says, "We always build a little room in designs."  The specs do say 150 is the max, but I want 60mph - fish a lot of tournaments.

What does anyone think about doing this?  Too big for the 198?  Maybe go 175HP?

Thanks for any insight or experience.

nquirk

Few things here to consider.  The safe rated capacity is listed as 150HP max.

By going bigger you add two key pieces:
1. Additional weight on the transom from the larger engine
2. Additional stress on the transom from the additional torque from the larger HP motor.

So I suspect that with a solid transom these may not be a real issue but something to consider.

Other items however that you must consider.

While its not illegal to my knowledge, some state laws/regulations may result in it be a ticket-able offence.    For example, I found this for Minnesota.

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/?id=86B.311

Under Subdivision 1, item 4, its considered unsafe to do so and may be ticket-able.

More importantly, given this situation, if you were to be in an accident with your boat oversized, you may then be liable because you've been deemed to be operating an unsafe vessel.  I'd investigate the your local state law/statutes/regulations along with speaking to your insurance provider.  You might get to the honey spot quicker but the liability and risks just may not be worth it.

Hope this helps.

IdahoMark

Thanks for the insight.  Helps a great deal.  I'll check the law, but likely Idaho hasn't anything for it.  Still quite a bit "Wild West" up here.

Was thinking about beefing up the transom to do it.  If it gives me torque problems, I'd likely "prop-down."

omar174

I think it's a terrible idea. The manufacturer designed/built/tested your hull for a max of 150 HP. Why in the world would you ever deviate from that? If you need more speed, sell your boat and buy one that fits your needs. With the cost of a new engine, rigging, etc. it's probably cheaper in the end anyways.

If you get in an accident and your boat is over powered, you think the law is going to care that you think its safe?