Posts: 32934
Location: Rhinelander, Wisconsin | North of 8 - 9/5/2018 1:52 PM
As I understand it, the hp ratings are set by standards that include the set up, the hull design, etc. My 1800 Pro V tiller is rated at 90 hp, and the console version, with the same hull was 150hp. To put a 150 tiller on it would be suicidal, forget liability.
Has to do with the center line length of the boat at the static float plane (first place water comes in when swamped, usually at the motor cutout) and other hull measurements, a WOT turn test, and seating arrangements. Po Chang, who was a USCG officer when I talked to him about the tillers, said restricted visibility past the passengers in a tiller is a major factor as is the fact a tiller can be turned MUCH faster than a wheel boat. Makes sense if you consider everything for safety and liability from a boat builder's perspective. |
