We tried a 3.5hp, but it was really way too heavy for even my beefiest crew to manage removing or installing on in even flat water off the back of the boat.

The Honda 2hp (you'll need the long shaft version) is 30lbs before fuel, and moves the boat at over 4 knots in flat water, more than enough for when there's no breeze. We don't need the motor when it's blowing, so that's really the only time we need it, if you think about it.

When it's running, just make sure you keep your crew in the back of the boat to keep the shaft and prop in the water. And, whatever you do, don't turn it around to put it in reverse, as the post will walk out and the motor will go glug-glug-glug as it disappears below the surface.

(Only has forward, the prop stops at lowest speed; but the boat is so light, don't really need a reverse.)

:: what are people recommending these days in terms of
:: lightweight outboards for the express? Freak's - #51,
:: needs a new motor.