The outboard (a 8hp, 1986 Evinrude 2-stroke) on my S22 (#523) had an heart attack so I'm in the market for a outboard. The Evinrude is mounted on the transom cut-out. It has a shaft length (as measured from the top of mounting bracket to the cavitation plate) of 15". When the motor is lowered into the operating position the capitation plate is a couple of inches under the water surface. And it seemed to have worked fine.

After window-shopping a bit, I'm not sure whether I should go for a 20" or a 15" shaft length. What do people have/recommend?

Also, the newer 4-stroke 8 hp outboards look a lot bigger/heavier than the Evinrude I have. Would a 6-hp (or even less?) 4-stroke be adequate?

thanks!

Pei