New engine

[Jimmyt]

Sounds like it might be the right fit for your application.

[Be Free]

Downsouth,

You mentioned that wind and choppy (not smooth) waters were common in your area. While it is a given that a 9.9 will move any Mac at or near hull speed in calm conditions a little extra horsepower may be advisable if you intend to motor against wind, waves, or current.

I'm not sure exactly where you are but I spent some time in Port Macquarie and I would not want to bring my boat in or out of that inlet with a 9.9 hp outboard.

[pitchpolehobie]

I have one of the unusual 25HP engines. I actually like it for good fuel economy and I believe the extra thrust helps in windy and choppy conditions. Seems to have good low end thrust. Something to consider based on conditions. I doubt it matters for small protected inland water. If I was more frequently ocean, intercoastal passages or great lakes It would be more useful.

[Be Free]

I have one of the unusual 25HP engines. I actually like it for good fuel economy and I believe the extra thrust helps in windy and choppy conditions. Seems to have good low end thrust. Something to consider based on conditions. I doubt it matters for small protected inland water. If I was more frequently ocean, intercoastal passages or great lakes It would be more useful.

Personally, I'd go with a 20-25 hp if I never planned on going over hull speed but wanted the reserve HP for bad conditions. It's a good compromise between economy and having a bit of HP reserve for unusual conditions.

[beechkingd]

I had a 30hp Yamaha on mine when I bought it, and it was less than impressive. I think it topped out at 11 knots, which really defeated the purpose of the 26x. To me the whole point of the power trailer sailor is the larger engine that can power you out of bad weather before it gets to you. I installed a 90hp on mine and have noticed no difference in the way it sails. To me the 100lb difference is not an issue. They're pretty mediocre sailboats really, so if I wanted a little engine, I would have bought a boat with a decent keel that's a dedicated sailboat.

[OverEasy]

To each thier own… 11 knots consistently pretty much regardless of wind direction is actually a real asset when wanting to get out and away from inclement weather. Beat the heck out of having to tack up wind to safe harbor!

It’s all relative to one’s perspectives.

Best Regards
Over Easy

[Lucky Drifter]

Hi Everyone hopefully our flooding river is starting to ease off for a while, its been our wettest year ever in Aus. Time to start sailing again. Thanks for all your advice on new engines. We have decided to go with a new Yamaha F50 or maybe the T60 high thrust, its only $500 extra. Has anyone else had experience with the T60 on their MacGregor ? Any advice greatly appreciated.

[Be Free]

No experience but when I was repowering a few years ago they were both on my short list. I think you would do well with either.

[Drifter]

Just somewhat randomly mentioning that I'm thinking of fitting a Yamaha 85 2-stroke to my old Mac.

About the same weight as the BF50 but more power. Obviously will use more fuel, plus stinky 2-stroke, but semi-affordable and the locals love the Yam 2-smokes, so vastly easier for parts and servicing options here.

Very hard to find any dealers for 4-strokes here in Borneo, especially smaller (sub 200) engines.

I deeply dislike 2-strokes, after a lifetime of experience with 2-stroke motorcycles, and much prefer the easy, reliable starting of a 4-stroke, plus they are quieter and more economical. But my ancient Honda BF50 is indeed pretty old now, with some parts just unavailable anywhere let alone here, so I imagine a brand new Yamaha will be more reliable over the longer term.

And I rather dig the whole 'gentleman sailing his yacht' contrast with 'Hooligan in his 2 stroke speedboat' vibe

[Be Free]

Experienced local service is high on the list of advantages for any engine. If that's what everyone is using you will probably be glad you chose it, all other things being mostly equal.