New owner - looking for DS3 manual & info on motor

[jefflw]

I just purchased a DS3 and wondering where I can find a DS3 manual.

Also interested in attaching a motor. What would be a good size, 4hp? And brand? Also what would be best way to mount. There is no mount on my boat for a motor. I know I could just use a trolling motor that would clamp on, but figure that a gas motor would have more benefits.

Any advice would be welcome.

Tx

[Roger]

I had a 5 hp and it was too heavy. The specs limit you to 8hp but that would be overkill. If you are not in heavy wind or current, a 2.5 should be adequate. I have a 2.5 on a boat over twice as heavy and it is adequate to move the boat at hull speed.

[jefflw]

What would be a good brand small HP gas motor to purchase? Maybe even one that would clamp on to the transom just like a trolling motor.

[Sean McGuire]

There are several brands of gas motors. Some of the more reputable names are Honda, Tohatsu, Johnson, Mercury, etc. I don't think you could go wrong with any of those. The features I would look for are:
A self contained gas tank
Four stroke (no mixing gas and oil, more fuel efficient, less emissions)
Reverse or at least neutral (my motor's prop is always turning if the motor is running - a real pain sometimes)
Light weight - especially if you plan on taking it on and off the boat a lot
No more than about 3.5 HP - anything more is overkill for a DS

You can get a mounting bracket or just mount it directly on the transom - either should work fine.

Happy Sailing,

Sean McGuire
1984 DSII "Iona"

[MrPlywood]

My DS1 came with a 1983 4HP (2-stroke) longshaft and a spring-loaded bracket. Both have worked fine. The motor is forward/neutral, with swivel for "reverse", but I've not used the swivel once. It has plenty of power for the lake, I'm curious to see how it holds up in some ocean bay currents next season. The bracket keeps the motor well back of the traveler. It's the old cowling mounted throttle style, so I just set it and go.

[thumb=657]

If you're thinking of buying used, these links might come in handy:

http://www.marineengine.com/parts/model ... ost80.html

http://shop2.evinrude.com