new to forum, questions about motor

[leenorma]

Hi everyone. I am brand new to the forum.

I just purchased a topper 1036 last night and am thinking of buying a 2.5 hp mercury for it, is this a good motor choice for this boat?

Also, what size TM would be ideal for this size boat? I am thinking of a 55 lb thrust.

Thanks guys.

[WIGuide]

Welcome to the forums, if you haven't done so already, head over to the introduction section and introduce yourself. 

That particular boat has a max hp rating of a 3 horse so a 2.5 will be just fine. You're also right on track with the trolling motor. A 55 will be plenty of power for the boat. Just be sure to get one that has a variable speed selection instead of something with 4 or 6 preset speeds. They usually cost a little more, but they are worth it. It seems like with the preset speeds one speed will always be just a little too slow for what you want but the next one will be just a bit too fast. 

[Bluebasser86]

Welcome to the forum.

 

I've owned several small boats along with an array of TM and gas motors. IMO, just stick with a TM for that boat. The added weight, expense, and hassle isn't worth the marginal gain (if any depending on the size TM you get). I had a 2.5hp Johnson on a pond hopper and couldn't tell the difference between the speed of that and my 50lb TM on top speed. The big difference was I had to carry extra gas with me if I was making a longer run with the gas motor. 

[A-Jay]

14 minutes ago, WIGuide said:

Welcome to the forums, if you haven't done so already, head over to the introduction section and introduce yourself. 

That particular boat has a max hp rating of a 3 horse so a 2.5 will be just fine. You're also right on track with the trolling motor. A 55 will be plenty of power for the boat. Just be sure to get one that has a variable speed selection instead of something with 4 or 6 preset speeds. They usually cost a little more, but they are worth it. It seems like with the preset speeds one speed will always be just a little too slow for what you want but the next one will be just a bit too fast. 

Well said ~

btw - with preset speeds, one speed does always seem be just a little too slow ~ and the next one will always be too fast.

I HATE THAT !

A-Jay

[Darren.]

Welcome aboard!

[leenorma]

Thanks for the input guys. so it looks like i'll start off with a minn kota variable speed 55lb thrust and go from there.

i'll head over to the introduction page now also.