Oh definitely makes sense - I'm on lakes in both places so no tidal currents.
Thanks!
    On Tuesday, May 19, 2020, 10:23:09 PM EDT, Peter Nyberg <peter at sunnybeeches.com> wrote:  
 
 Larry,

Motor size depends on what kind of sailing you’re doing.  I do coastal sailing where I often have to fight strong tidal currents of up to 3 to 4 knots in places like harbor channels. For these conditions, I think my 8 HP motor is about the minimum that’s up to the task.  If you sail someplace without tides, I think you could get by with less power.

—Peter

> On May 19, 2020, at 9:08 PM, Larry Gioia via Rhodes22-list <rhodes22-list at rhodes22.org> wrote:
> 
> Peter, Charles, thank you!  I was shocked that Peter had made a youtube video of it. That was so helpful!  And I definitely don't need any kerplunks!  Peter, Silverheels looks exactly like my 2014 R22: color scheme, mast fittings, everything. I thought I saw the stopper knot on my '86 but maybe I didn't - I have a tendency to look for a minute then go sailing. So it will be a project saved for the next time I drop the mast.
> The '86 has a 6hp Suzuki 4-stroke on it, I think about a 2006 - great motor so far, though I've had the boat for less than 2 months.  I have a 3.5hp Mercury 4-stroke on my 2014, it's fine for coming back in when the wind dies down on the lake, but the 6 moves the boat better.  I was using a 55lb thrust electric trolling motor while the Mercury was being repaired - now that was underpowered!  But kinda worked.  Not to open a can of worms, but what size motors do you find work best?  I saw a 5hp propane-powered motor advertised a few months back.
> Larry
>    On Tuesday, May 19, 2020, 05:35:11 PM EDT, Peter Nyberg <peter at sunnybeeches.com> wrote:  
>