MacGregor 25 with 4 cycle engine

[tom7219]

I modified my 1985 Mac 25 by adding a helm station and remote controls. The boat came with a 15 hp 2 cycle merc with tiller steering. Replaced it with a 1993 2cycle Johnson 9.9 with remote controls. The Johnson is now worn out. I'm looking at a Suzuki 4 cycle with remote controls. it's 46 pounds heavier and as a 4 cycle has more torque. There are no smaller motors made with remote controls. The outboard motor bracket is the original.

Has anyone put a 9.9 4 cycle motor on a Mac 25, and if so, were the bracket and boat both tough enough? If modifications were needed, what were they and how did they work?

In addition to sailing, we use the Mac for cruising the Tennessee river, so maintaining remote controls is absolutely necessary. Any and all comments and suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Tom

[beechkingd]

There are several small OB's with remote controls, for some reason they usually are dealer only order/install items. I used to have a 25 and I put a stronger lift on it when I put a 4 stroke on it. I did it mainly because it was rated for a heavier engine and had stronger lift assist springs.

[tom7219]

Thanks. I was worried about the strength of the transom with a heavier motor that develops more torque. I made the mistake of buying a used Johnson from a dealer in New Jersey. After two years and many hundreds of dollars of repair bills, it will still only run for a half hour before dying. Since my boat is modified with a console and remote controls, I'm looking at a Suzuki 9.9. It's the only current engine in that hp range with remote controls.