How to Choose the Perfect Suzuki Outboard Motor for Your Jon Boat

How to Choose the Perfect Suzuki Motor for Your Jon Boat?

When it comes to powering your jon boat, choosing the right motor is essential for a safe and enjoyable boating experience. Here's a checklist of key factors to consider:

  1. What Size Jon Boat Do You Have? The size of your jon boat will play a significant role in determining the power you need from your motor. Jon boats come in a variety of sizes, ranging from 8 feet to over 20 feet. As a general rule, smaller jon boats under 14 feet typically require a motor with a lower horsepower rating, while larger boats may require a more powerful motor.
  1. What speed do you want to achieve? If you're looking to achieve a specific speed on the water, it's important to choose a motor with enough horsepower to meet your needs. A 2.5 horsepower motor can typically achieve speeds between 5 and 10 mph, while a 10 horsepower motor can reach speeds between 20 and 25 mph. For those seeking faster speeds, a motor with 25 to 60 horsepower can achieve speeds over 30 mph, depending on the weight of the boat and the conditions of the water.

 

  1. What is the Power Recommendation for Your Jon Boat? The power recommendation for your jon boat will depend on its size and weight. As a rule of thumb, you should aim for a motor with a horsepower rating between 4 hp and 25 hp for jon boats up to 14 feet in length. For boats over 14 feet, you may need a motor with a horsepower rating of 25 hp or more.

How to Choose the Right Shaft Length for Your Outboard Motor

Measure from the top of the transom to the bottom of the hull – this measurement should be taken in the center of the transom for a single engine application. For a short shaft, your transom height should measure 15 to 17.5 inches. If your transom measures 19 to 22.5 inches, you'll need a long shaft. And there are extra/ultra-long shafts for transoms measuring taller than 22.5 inches. The ultra/extra long shaft models are commonly used in kicker and auxiliary applications where the outboard is mounted to the port side of a main motor, or on a bracket (as is the case with sailboats).

When it comes to selecting the right outboard motor for your boat, choosing the correct shaft length is a critical consideration. An incorrect shaft length can lead to problems with steering, handling, and overall performance. In this article, we will provide an in-depth guide to help you determine the appropriate shaft length for your boat.

Here are some general power recommendations based on the size of your jon boat:

  • For jon boats up to 10 feet in length: a motor with a horsepower rating 2.5 hp, 4hp and 6 hp is recommended. The Suzuki DF2.5 is a popular option for smaller boats whilst the DF4 and DF6 can provide you with that extra performance.
  • For jon boats between 10 and 14 feet in length: a motor with a horsepower rating between 6 and 15 hp is recommended. The Suzuki DF6, DF9.9, or DF15 are all good options for this size range.
  • For jon boats over 14 feet in length: a motor with a horsepower rating of 15hp, 25 hp, and 30 hp is recommended. The Suzuki DF20 or DF25 are both excellent choices for larger boats whilst the DF 30 will allow you to carry more cargo.

  1. What Type of Motor Should You Choose? When it comes to powering your jon boat, you have two main options: gas or electric. Gas motors are generally more powerful and reliable, while electric motors are quieter and more environmentally friendly. For jon boats, gas motors are the most common choice due to their efficiency and reliability. Suzuki Marine offers a range of gas motors that are perfect for jon boats of all sizes.
  2. What Shaft Length Do You Need? The shaft length of your motor is another crucial factor to consider. The shaft length should be chosen based on the size of your boat and the depth of the water you'll be navigating. A motor with a shaft that's too short will struggle to propel the boat efficiently, while a motor with a shaft that's too long can make navigating shallow waters difficult. Suzuki offers motors with a range of shaft lengths to accommodate different jon boat sizes and water conditions.
  3. Is Electric Start or Manual Start better?
Electric Start:
  • Pros: Convenient and easy to use. Simply turn the key and the motor starts.
  • Cons: More expensive than a manual start. Requires a battery to power the starter motor, which can add weight to your boat.

Manual Start:

  • Pros: Less expensive than an electric start. Lightweight and simple to operate. Can be used as a backup if your battery fails.
  • Cons: Requires pulling a rope to start the motor, which can be difficult for some people. Not as convenient as an electric start.

Ultimately, the decision between electric or manual start comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of your boating experience.

 

By considering these key factors, you can choose the perfect Suzuki motor for your jon boat and enjoy a safe and exciting boating experience.

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