New Motor 26D

[Misty Alley]

My present 26D has a 1989 8 hp 4 stock Honda is on its last legs and time for a new motor,
I know it has been a topic a few times but I have a few questions.
my understanding is the only difference between a 8 and 9.9 is the carb. please corrected me. and why would I need 9.9 vs 8

How do I measure my present shaft length. ( I do get the prop coming out of the water in high seas)

Which model and make works the best for maneuverability , I see the Honda is quite large and would it have limited turning space.
I would like to avoid adding a new bracket to set the motor back.

Is there a best Prop that I should purchase with the new motor.
I am 71 and it may be best to have elect option( Honda does not have both manual and elect comp.)

At the moment I am looking at both Yamaha and Mercury either a 8 or 9.9
Thanks in advance
George

[KingRichard]

8hp to 9.9 only difference being the carb is true with certain manufacturers on certain years/models, probably not true as a blanket statement. For example, my original motor was an 8hp and there was an identical 6hp also sold with the only difference being carb or rev limiter, ect.

I've had a couple different motors motors on my 26S, If I was going to buy a new one... 25" X-long shaft, no question about that as even that comes out in heavy seas. Prop pitch will depend on gear case/gearing, but a 9 would be about right assuming you don't want to troll. My 11.25 is a little fast in the marina and the 7 takes all the rpm to get to hull speed without much chop. And you're absolutely right about the powerhead size, the smaller head motor was much more comfortable to use in tight spaces; the Honda's look much too big.

Hope that helps

[Jimmyt]

How do I measure my present shaft length. ( I do get the prop coming out of the water in high seas)

Thanks in advance
George

Welcome to the forum George! Thanks for joining us!

Here is an explanation of measuring the motor to determine the shaft length.

https://postimg.cc/dZ04CD08

Happy motor shopping.

Jim

[Misty Alley]

Thank you King Richard And Jimmyt
How wonderful to get answers to questions concerning my 26D
George