by Guest » Tue Feb 20, 2001 12:29 pm
You should be able to use a short-shaft motor on a Day Sailer I or II in mostly calm waters. I used a short-shaft 2.3hp Johnson outboard on my boat, clamped right onto the transom and it worked fine. I did have to sit on the same side as the motor if it got rough, but 90% of the time it worked great.
However, if you have a Day Sailer III, you will need a long-shaft outboard or an add-on mounting bracket because those boats had a higher transom.
Even on the DS I or DS II, a long-shaft is better, but not mandatory. Most outboard makers do offer a shaft-extension for their motors, check with a dealer. You did not mention what brand outboard you have, but if it is a NISSAN, a shaft extension will be available. The same parts should also fit a TOHATSU, MERCURY or JOHNSON/EVINRUDE 3.3/3.5. However, you may find that the cost for the parts and any labor to install them may not be all that much less than the cost of a new long-shaft motor, assuming that you can trade the old motor for part of the price.
Rod Johnson (rjohnson24-at-juno.com)