How to Select a Kicker Motor for a Boat

A kicker is an outboard that you use to help or supplement your main engine. It can serve as a low-power alternative engine, perhaps as a trolling motor, when your 250-horsepower main is simply inappropriate for the task. It also serves as a "get home" spare in case of main engine failure. There are some important limitations you must consider, but its physical characteristics, not the name on the motor cover, should influence your choice.

Things You'll Need

  • Outboard manufacturer's specifications
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Instructions

    • 1

      Inspect the U.S. Coast Guard "Capacities" label on the starboard, bottom -- the bottom right side -- of the transom, the "back wall" of the boat, where you will mount the kicker engine. The label will detail the total allowable horsepower for the hull design and the total weight the boat is permitted to carry.

    • 2

      Subtract the horsepower rating of the current motor from the total allowable horsepower specified on the capacities label. The result is the maximum allowable horsepower for your kicker.

    • 3

      Subtract the approximate weight of the passengers and gear you normally carry from the allowable weight specified on the capacities label. The result is the maximum allowable weight of the kicker.

    • 4

      Read the manufacturer's specifications for outboards that meet the weight and horsepower limitations.