R22 Discussion Group

Lee,

There are really two reasons to have an outboard.  One, when the wind dies and you need to get somewhere.  In this case the Torqeedo electric outboard will work (slowly?) until the battery runs down.  I think it lacks sufficient range to be a viable option in this scenario.  Are you willing to carry a gasoline fired generator or more batteries?  Two, when you need to maneuver in close quarters (like in a marina) in situations of opposing wind, current, other boat traffic, etc.  Here, the 3 hp Torqeedo is dangerously underpowered on a Rhodes 22.  So, unless you can be assured of being able to sail all the way back to your marina and then use your Torqeedo to motor into your slip on a windless evening, it seems pretty undersized.

Roger Pihlaja
S/V Dynamic Equilibrium

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From: Lowe, Rob<mailto:rlowe at vt.edu>
Sent: Friday, October 30, 2020 2:12 PM
To: The Rhodes 22 Email List<mailto:rhodes22-list at rhodes22.org>
Subject: Re: [Rhodes22-list] 3 Horsepower Electric Outboard

Lee,
Since I sail on Claytor Lake (well, I will again next season) and know that lake, I would not depend on a 3ph.  The wind will hit you right on the nose coming back into the marina.  I'd suggest a 5/6hp for a Rhodes in a headwind.  Of course there was that one good blow when I was glad I had the 9.9! - rob

Rob Lowe
Nameless (still)
Claytor Lake, VA

The Rhodes 22 Discussion Group

ROGER PIHLAJA

3 Horsepower Electric Outboard