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I have just re-powered my 1988 17' Montauk with a 2015 Evinrude E-TEC 60hp. I have just over 4 hours on the motor and literally just pulled it out of the water from its first trials.
I used my phone's GPS speedometer app to check speed at rpm so this isn't scientific. But if you are considering a re-power with a 60hp motor this is legitimately what you can expect.
Boat had 10 gallons of fuel, one battery in rear of boat and myself at 210 lbs. I am using a Bob's Machine 4 inch offset bracket so I didn't have to drill new holes in my transom for the new standard motor mount spacing, bracket is 4 inches of offset and 1.5 inch increase in motor height, in addition the motor is mounted using the 2nd hole from the top for an over-all rise of about 2 inches above standard transom height.
It planed with no struggle what so ever, about 3000rpm will fully plane the boat. Best cruising (smoothest with slight trim up) was at 22-24 mph at 4000-4400 rpm and WOT was 32mph at 5500 rpm.
I have a Viper stainless 13 & 7/8 x 17 pitch prop and I was able to easily hit red line of 6000 rpm's. I am choosing to stay with this prop as rpm's will fall off when I add a load to the boat. I will have to be aware and not run it over 5500rpm with just me in the boat.
From idle if I punch the throttle, it takes about 1 second for the torque to really kick in and the boat jumps up and goes. At idle or at the dock, boat sits level with splash well holes completely out of the water and the chines sitting right at the surface of the water. I have been in 2 Montauks with 90 4strokes and they sit about 3" lower in the water, at the stern, than mine does now with the 60hp ETEC.
If you were on the fence about going with a 60hp rather than the typical 90hp, then don't fear, this is a great set up and unless you plan on hauling 4 people with extra gear and or plan on water skiing/tubing you will be happy, that is if the above performance is what you are looking for.
Jason: Thanks for sharing the results of your maiden run of the 2015 Evinrude E-Tec 60 newly installed on your 1988 Boston Whaler Montauk 17. The E-Tec 60 is an efficient motor with great holeshot. The massive cylinder bore and short stroke allow this engine to run at or near WOT (not exceeding 6000 rpm) for extended periods without damaging the powerhead. Your E-Tec 60 produces 60 hp at 5750 rpm. I predict when boating with your young family aboard, your kids will tire long before you consume the 10 gallons capacity. You can perhaps start a college fund with the fuel savings. Enjoy your new rig.
