Repowering/Overpowering my '01 SanPan 2500fe

[CoveDweller]

I'm considering repowering my '01 Sanpan 2500fe which currently is running a Yamaha F100 and runs 24 mph @ WOT. The coast guard plate indicates a max hp of 155, a Yamaha F150 and F200 both have identical weights. Is it possible to go with the F200 to gain additional hp and hopefully speed and not damage my pontoon boat? Any idea what mph I would run with the 200 vs 150? Any assistance/comments would be appreciated!

[pond tuuunes]

The problem is.... If something bad happens and your insurance company finds out. Also its not nessasarilly about engine weight, its about what the HP can do to your boat. JT

[Bamaman]

Are you talking about a pontoon or triton?

Unless your boat has lifting strakes, I wouldn't waste the money going over 115 hp. If you have strakes, you could go ahead with the Yamaha F150.

[playcat]

The problem is.... If something bad happens and your insurance company finds out. Also its not nessasarilly about engine weight, its about what the HP can do to your boat. JT

Ditto - last thing you need is your insurance company to charge you with insurance fraud for having over rated (and under reported) power. Seen it before...

[badmoonrising]

Yep, seriously liability issue.

[jayw]

DO NOT DO IT. In IL the new law set to take effect 1/1/15 has new language for overpowering a boat as I understand. This all goes back to Sen, Julie Morrisson and the Tony Borcia case, part of the package of laws she got passed. If there is an accident, you could be considered in reckless operation if your boat is overpowered. Not to mention the insurance issues the others have mentioned. The USCG plate is not just a guideline. On our chain I've heard the marine patrol already will cite you on the spot if they catch you. The new law makes it worse as I understand.

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/il ... apterID=49

[CoveDweller]

Thank you all for your responses, I definitely didn't consider all of the ramifications caused by exceeding the hp rating. Just going to underskin and add the 150 Yamaha.