Electric Outboard for R23

[jschutzler]

Has anyone used an electric outboard as a kicker for their Tug? I am looking for something that can get me to safer waters if there is an issue with my main engine. If so, what HP/Thrust/Wattage have people found to be acceptable to move the boat? Any make/model people would recommend?

 

[ohioan55]

I like the idea. We have a 9.9 kicker, but if you are having fuel problems, then you may still be 'up the creek without a paddle'. I like ePropulsion. I would think something in the 6 kwatt range would work.

 

[Torpedo]

I am not an ocean or great water cruiser by any means BUT still having the same safety concerns plus helps immensely for self launching and fishing thus, the auto deploy/stow Minn Kota Riptide Instinct Quest 90lb Thrust, 87” Shaft works great for me (there is bigger available too). Let me know if you want to see a video or check the Minn Kota website. I know I know. That’s a lot of redundancy but then again I have always been a risk management/safety kind of guy.

 

[jschutzler]

I am not an ocean or great water cruiser by any means BUT still having the same safety concerns plus helps immensely for self launching and fishing thus, the auto deploy/stow Minn Kota Riptide Instinct Quest 90lb Thrust, 87” Shaft works great for me (there is bigger available too). Let me know if you want to see a video or check the Minn Kota website. I know I know. That’s a lot of redundancy but then again I have always been a risk management/safety kind of guy.
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Thanks. Thats really helpful. Nice boat!

 

[Nutty Alaskan]

I am not an ocean or great water cruiser by any means BUT still having the same safety concerns plus helps immensely for self launching and fishing thus, the auto deploy/stow Minn Kota Riptide Instinct Quest 90lb Thrust, 87” Shaft works great for me (there is bigger available too). Let me know if you want to see a video or check the Minn Kota website. I know I know. That’s a lot of redundancy but then again I have always been a risk management/safety kind of guy.
View attachment 26135

Torpedo, thanks for posting this! Your solution looks exactly like I was trying to figure out for an R-23 I will soon have in Alaska. Any chance you could share some details on how you mounted the Minn Kota plate on your tug, along with how you hooked up the electrical? I am assuming you had to install a load plate inside the V-berth. Also, can you share if you think the 72" shaft would work or if 87" would be the minimum you would choose? Can't tell what model tug you have but it looks like a 23. As soon as everything melts up here, I would like to get one of the Quests or Terrovas installed. Thanks!

 

[Torpedo]

Hello Nutty: I was very careful about choosing shaft length and for mine and R-23’s in general, I would not recommend anything less than 87”. Did not install load plate but used heavy duty stainless washers. I would send some interior pics but I would have to take down overhead cover to illustrate. Know too that in order to create adequate support for the mounting plate fasteners and washers and motor, it was necessary for me to permanently close off the port anchor locker door also with fasteners, washers and sealer. I will try to attach an exterior install photo. Notice the piece of starboard I used to help reinforce deck support and to level the deck to accommodate the base plate. Also, be advised, for me, the most concerning part of the entire install was cutting the bow railing but with the correct hinge and pin lock connection pictured, the integrity of the railing remains 95% secure. Don’t forget the motor I use is auto deploy and retrieve utilizing a remote control unit and lanyard. Absolutely love it especially when I launch and retrieve via trailer by myself and then maneuver to dock. So far, reliability has been extraordinary. Electrical was easy with 2 group 24 AGM batteries stowed starboard side forward under v birth. I charge when I connect to shore power. Let me know if you have additional questions.

 

[Nutty Alaskan]

Thanks for the additional photos and information! I’ll have to see what is available in Alaska, most 87” shaft length motors appear out of stock. I think the rest of your provided information makes a ton of sense. If I can figure out how to maintain access to the port anchor locker, I’ll let you know.