Kicking Engine Size For A 20-Foot Boat: How Big?

If you're looking to get out on the water, one of the most important considerations is what size engine you'll need to power your vessel. While a 20-foot boat is a great size for a variety of uses, from fishing to leisure activities, choosing the right engine size can be tricky.

For a 20-foot pontoon boat, experts generally recommend an engine with 115 horsepower, which will allow you to reach speeds of around 23 mph. However, this can vary depending on factors such as the number of people on board, the weight of the boat, and the type of activity you'll be using it for.

When it comes to kickers or auxiliary motors, the Pacific Northwest is one of the few markets that commonly use them. These smaller motors are typically used for navigation when the main engine fails or for trolling certain types of fish at low speeds. While they are not necessary, they can be useful in certain situations and are popular among anglers and boaters who want peace of mind and better efficiency.

For a 20-foot boat, a kicker motor of around 9.9 HP should be sufficient to push the boat at trolling speeds. It's important to consider the weight of the kicker motor and how it will affect the overall weight distribution of the boat. Additionally, the type of control and steering system you choose for your kicker motor will impact your experience.

Kicker motor horsepower for a 20-foot boat

A kicker motor is a small auxiliary motor, usually within 10 horsepower, depending on the boat size. It is used for navigation when the main engine fails or for trolling certain types of fish at low speed.

For a 20-foot boat, a 9.9 horsepower kicker motor will be sufficient to push the boat at trolling speeds. If you are facing heavy winds and currents, you may require more power.

When selecting a kicker motor, it is important to consider the weight and overall efficiency of the boat. The kicker motor adds extra weight to the boat, which can affect its power efficiency. Ensure that the total weight, including the main engine, kicker motor, people, and gear, is within the limit indicated on the boat capacity plate.

Additionally, consider the physical space required for the kicker motor, especially if you want to control it using a tiller. Getting a compact electric kicker motor can save space and provide a user-friendly boating experience.

Some factors to consider when choosing a kicker motor include the type of control (manual/tiller or remote), the ease of use, quietness, and fuel efficiency. Electric kicker motors are quiet, clean, and fuel-efficient, making them ideal for fishing and wildlife viewing.

Overall, a 9.9 horsepower kicker motor is a suitable choice for a 20-foot boat, but you may need to adjust the horsepower depending on the specific needs and requirements of your boat.

Kicker motor weight

Kicker motors are a great backup option for when your main engine fails, especially if you are fishing offshore. They are also useful for trolling certain kinds of fish at low speeds, such as salmon, trout, walleye, and kokanee.

When selecting a kicker motor, it is important to consider the power rating and the weight of the motor. A 9.9 HP kicker motor is typically sufficient for pushing 25-30 ft boats at trolling speeds. However, if you anticipate heavy winds and currents, you may require more power.

The weight of the kicker motor can affect the overall power efficiency of your boat. It is crucial to ensure that the total weight, including the main engine, kicker motor, people, and gear, does not exceed the limit indicated on the boat capacity plate. Additionally, the extra weight of the kicker motor can lead to weight distribution problems, affecting the ride of your boat.

• The 6 HP kicker motor Navy 3.0 Evo weighs 24.3 kg (53.6 lbs)
• The 9.9 HP kicker motor Navy 6.0 Evo weighs 36 kg (79.4 lbs)
• The Mercury 5hp long shaft kicker motor weighs 55 lbs
• The 4hp kicker motor weighs less than the 8hp or 10hp motors, which weigh nearly twice as much.

When choosing a kicker motor, consider the weight and power rating to ensure it meets your specific needs and requirements.

Kicker motor cost

A kicker motor is a small auxiliary motor, usually within 10 HP, that is used for navigation when the main engine fails or for trolling certain types of fish at low speed. It is beneficial to have a kicker motor as it acts as a backup engine, especially when fishing offshore, and can help save energy as it burns less gas than the main engine at idle.

The cost of a kicker motor depends on various factors, such as the power rating, type of engine, and additional features. For example, a full remote-controlled 9.9 four-stroke kicker motor with power tilt and electric start can cost around $5500, including installation, controls, and a tie bar to connect it to the main steering system. On the other hand, a smaller 3 HP Spirit 1.0 Evo kicker motor designed for boats up to 25 feet can be a more affordable option, but it may not have the same power and features as the more expensive models.

When considering the cost of a kicker motor, it is important to factor in the additional weight, which can affect the boat's performance and handling. The weight of the kicker motor can impact the boat's balance and weight distribution, and may require adjustments to the transom or additional mounting brackets.

Additionally, service and maintenance costs should be considered as part of the overall kicker motor cost. Even though a kicker motor may have lower horsepower than the main engine, the service costs can be similar due to the labour involved and the need for similar parts such as fuel filters, water pumps, and control cables.

Overall, the decision to purchase a kicker motor depends on your specific needs and requirements. While it may provide peace of mind and improved efficiency, it is important to weigh the pros and cons to determine if the cost of the kicker motor justifies its benefits.

Kicker motor steering options

EZ-Steer Universal System

The EZ-Steer Universal system is a self-adjusting rod that allows you to steer your auxiliary outboard motor directly from your boat's main wheel. This system improves safety and convenience by keeping your focus forward while operating the boat. It offers uninterrupted operation, improved efficiency, simplified selection, and easy installation. The kit includes all the necessary hardware for a quick setup and is backed by a one-year limited warranty.

Outboard Kicker Motor Steering Kit

This kit provides a strong and wear-resistant steering handle system assembly for your auxiliary outboard motor. It ensures precise control and is designed for engines ranging from 15HP to 200HP.

Tiller Extension Handle

A tiller extension handle can be a useful addition to your kicker motor, providing better control and comfort during operation. Extension handles are available in fixed lengths or adjustable lengths, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your boat.

Panther Marine Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit

The Panther Marine Auxiliary Motor Steering Kit is another option to consider. It comes in two material options: stainless steel and zinc-plated steel. This kit will provide smooth and responsive steering for your auxiliary motor.

HelmsMate Tiller Extension Handle

The HelmsMate Tiller Extension Handle is a universal joint model that offers an extendable length ranging from 37" to 51". It provides excellent control and is a popular choice among boat owners, with over 200 purchases in the past month.

When choosing a kicker motor steering option, it's important to consider the size and type of your boat, as well as the horsepower of your engine. Additionally, factors such as ease of installation, safety features, and compatibility with your existing setup should be taken into account.

Kicker motor mounting options

Kicker motors are a great backup option for your boat, and can be used in emergencies when the main engine fails. They are also useful for sailboaters and anglers who want to troll certain kinds of fish at low speeds.

There are a few things to consider when mounting a kicker motor. Firstly, decide where to install it. It's a matter of personal preference, but mounting it on the starboard side if you're right-handed will allow you to steer the kicker with your dominant hand. You should also consider the boat's balance and weight distribution and choose a position that won't interfere with the operation or swing of the main engine.

Next, you have the option to either mount the kicker motor directly on the transom or use a kicker motor mount bracket. Using a bracket gives you more flexibility in terms of height and position, but it will require additional space and may be more costly.

Finally, set up the throttle and steering system. You can choose between tiller steering, which is usually built into smaller kicker motors, or remote steering, which requires a dedicated steering kit to link the kicker motor to your main outboard.

• Panther Marine offers a range of motor brackets, including auxiliary outboard brackets, static motor mount plates, and fixed-mount brackets for 4-stroke motors.
• Marinebaby has an aluminium boat engine support bracket for motors up to 20 HP.
• YaeMarine offers a 2-stroke outboard motor bracket for boats up to 25 HP.
• Attwood provides a kicker motor steering kit.
• Brocraft has a deck mount trolling motor bracket.
• MARINE CITY offers a range of motor brackets, including a stainless steel fine-polished bracket and an aluminium bracket, both for motors up to 20 HP.

Remember to always check the weight and size limitations of your boat before installing a kicker motor, and ensure that the total weight, including the main engine, kicker motor, people, and gear, is within the specified limit.

Frequently asked questions